A Somalian-born British man has appeared in court charged with attempted murder following an incident in which five pedestrians were hit by a car in West London.
Ahmed Timir, 34, is accused of deliberately driving into a crowd at a crossing on Ealing Broadway on June 27. The incident occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m. Timir also allegedly fled the scene in a white Seat Leon, leaving five individuals injured. He was arrested by police a short distance from where the collision took place.
Appearing at Willesden Magistrates' Court, Timir did not enter pleas to the charges, which include five counts of attempted murder, failing to stop at the scene of an accident, dangerous driving, not providing a sample for a breathalyser test, and damaging property. He confirmed his name and date of birth during the court appearance.
During the hearing, the prosecution stated that as the vehicle approached the pedestrian crossing, the traffic light was red and a large number of pedestrians were crossing. The defendant is alleged to have driven directly through the crossing, striking multiple individuals. Several victims were reportedly thrown into the air, sustaining serious injuries including broken facial bones and a broken pelvis.
Two of the five injured individuals received treatment at the scene, while three were transported to a hospital. Their injuries were described as non-life-threatening.
Counter Terrorism Policing London conducted the initial inquiries, but authorities have stated that the incident is not being treated as terrorism. While investigators are reportedly keeping an open mind regarding any potential motive, the nature of the incident has not been classified as terror-related.
Magistrate Caroline Walsh ordered Timir to be remanded in custody until July 27, when he is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey.