Police have apprehended an eighth individual in connection with a significant altercation involving a machete at a KFC on Bromley High Street, which resulted in four people sustaining stab wounds. The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. on Thursday.
Among those injured were a 21-year-old man and three boys aged between 14 and 17. They were transported to the hospital for treatment. The 21-year-old man was initially in critical condition, but his injuries are now considered non-life-threatening. The other three injured individuals also sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The four victims, along with four other boys, all aged between 14 and 17, have been arrested and are currently in police custody. Witnesses reported a substantial amount of blood at the scene, with some describing the weapon used as a large knife or a machete. One witness, a bus driver, stated the victims were attacked with what appeared to be a "zombie knife."
Law enforcement officials have indicated that there is no ongoing threat to the public. The KFC restaurant where the incident took place was closed on Thursday as the company provided support to its staff.
The altercation reportedly spilled onto the high street, prompting a large emergency service response. This included multiple police cars, fire engines, a drone, helicopters, and an air ambulance. A cordon was established, blocking off the town square and shopping center between Ringers Road and Ethelbert Road.
A manager of a nearby gambling shop described witnessing the fight extend outside and expressed concern, locking herself and three customers inside her premises until the situation de-escalated. A resident also noted the significant presence of emergency vehicles.
Detectives are treating the incident as isolated. Bromley, described as generally a middle-class area with sprawling green spaces, is known for its relative safety, being ranked among the top ten safest boroughs in the capital with 67 crimes reported per 1,000 people according to CrimeRate data. It is also noted as one of the most expensive areas in southeast London to purchase property.
Peter Fortune, the Conservative Member of Parliament for Bromley, stated on X that he was aware of residents' safety concerns and was in close contact with the police regarding the ongoing investigation.
According to a Met Police spokesman, officers responded to reports of an altercation and found four men with stab wounds. The London Ambulance Service confirmed they dispatched multiple crews and the air ambulance, treating and transporting four patients to the hospital. A KFC spokesperson stated the company is cooperating with the police investigation and prioritizing support for its employees and customers.