A man has been charged with four counts of attempted murder after a car struck pedestrians in London’s West End on Christmas Day.
The incident occurred at 00:45 GMT on Shaftesbury Avenue in Soho, the heart of the capital’s theatre district.
The car was reportedly travelling on the wrong side of the road when it collided with four individuals. One victim remains in critical condition in hospital.
Anthony Gilheaney, 30, from Harlow, Essex, faces additional charges, including causing serious injury while driving disqualified, dangerous driving, and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
He appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on 24 January.
Police Respond Swiftly to “Violent Attack”
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy of the Metropolitan Police described the collision as a “violent attack in the early hours of Christmas Day.”
He added, “A suspect was arrested within minutes, and our thoughts are with the victims, one of whom remains in a critical condition.”
The Met Police confirmed that officers were called to reports of a collision involving a car driving on the wrong side of Shaftesbury Avenue. The attack has been classified as an isolated incident and is not believed to be terror-related.
Forensic Investigation at the Scene
On Christmas Day, the area outside a branch of Caffè Concerto was littered with bloodstains and personal items, including a jacket, shoes, and a hat. Forensic officers were seen collecting these items as evidence.
A police cordon was set up between the Gielgud Theatre, hosting the musical Oliver, and the Sondheim Theatre, home to Les Misérables.
The scene remained under investigation as authorities worked to piece together the events leading up to the collision.
