Witnesses reported massive scenes of panic outside Westminster Hall, when a 4x4 vehicle crashed into railings nearby. The reports were followed by news of several people being hit by a car on Westminster Bridge, when gunfire opened.
Onlookers also reportedly saw a man with a knife in a confrontation with the police. Prime Minister Theresa May who was in PMQs, was in the division lobby, when she was apprised of the situation, and immediately bundled into a car. Members of the Met Police's new SAS-style, heavily armed, counter terrorism unit were effectively deployed to the scene with automatic weapons. Scotland Yard confirmed that it was dealing with a "firearms incident". Sitting of the House of Commons was suspended, and MPs were instructed to stay in their chambers.
A reporter who was present at the scene, informed that he heard an "almighty crash" and saw a 4x4 rammed into the railings outside the Parliament. "The guy who was the driver of the 4x4 got out of the car and sprinted away from the scene. That was followed by what sounded like gun shots and all hell was let loose, police descended everywhere." The Parliament was placed on lockdown, and police authorities were seen escorting at least one Government Minister to safety.
A BBC journalist reported, "There has been commotion outside. We have been told to stay inside and stay away from the windows and the doors. MPs, a lot of MPs were on their way to vote. A lot of MPs were on the escalator travelling from the Café area in Portcullis House to House of Commons chamber; a lot of MPs were on their way to vote. Then they heard gunshots, or they were told that they were gun shots and were quickly ferried back inside to Portcullis House. afé area in Portcullis House to House of Commons chamber; a lot of MPs were on their way to vote. Then they heard gunshots, or they were told that they were gun shots and were quickly ferried back inside to Portcullis House."
The scene at Westminster Bridge was reported by Alistair Bunkall from the Waterloo station. "I've counted at least 15 ambulances or paramedic vehicles. There are a number of unmarked police cars here. Police are putting up cordens. There are paramedics walking up to Westminster Bridge."
Details awaited.
