What We Know About The London Terrorist Attack, Murder Of Police Constable Keith Palmer
Police Constable Keith Palmer was killed in the London terrorist attack.
Police Constable Ketih Palmer Killed In London terrorist Attack
London – Police Constable Keith Palmer, age 48, was murdered on Wednesday as he protected Parliament and Westminster Palace from a terrorist in London.
According to The Guardian, the attack began about 2:40 PM when a suspect accelerated and drove a Hyundai 4 x 4 into a crowd of pedestrians on Westminster Bridge. He continued until he reached the railings near Parliament, where he got out of his vehicle.
Constable Keith Palmer was unarmed and guarding the palace when the terrorist charged him and stabbed him to death. He was then shot and killed by armed police.
UK Prime Minister said, “We should be clear first of all that an attacker attempted to break into Parliament and was shot dead within 20 yards of the gate. If his intention was to gain access to this building, we should be clear that he did not succeed. The police heroically did their job.”
Four people are confirmed dead, including Police Constable Keith Palmer and the suspect. About 40 people were injured.
One of the victims killed was identified as US citizen Kurt Cochran, who was in London with his wife, celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. His wife was severely injured and is stile in the hospital.
The suspect, whose name has not been released, was previously known to M15 intelligence because of concerns over violent extremism. He is British-born and seemed to be inspired by ISIS propaganda. No recognized group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Parliament was in session and was placed on lockdown, which has since been lifted.
Eight other people have been arrested in late-night raids across the country of England that had some type of involvement in the incident. Police have confirmed that “a full counterterrorism investigation” is underway. No other details have been released.
PC Palmer was a member of the Met’s parliamentary and diplomatic protection command and a 15-year veteran. It is believed that he was a member of the Royal Artillery before he became a police officer.
Members of Parliament praised PC Palmer for his bravery, including Yvette Cooper, the home affairs select committee chair. She said, “Thank you PC Keith Palmer – to your bravery many others owe their lives and safety.”
A fundraising effort is underway to assist his family. He was described as a loving husband and father.
On Thursday, MPs in Westminster observed a moment of silence in PC Palmer’s honor. The tribute occurred at 9:33 AM in honor of his shoulder number ‘933’.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of fallen hero PC Keith Palmer, both blood and blue. Godspeed, sir we will take it from here. Thank you for your service.
