Five men charged over ‘acid attack’ on boy in Worcester in Home Bargains
FIVE men have been charged over the suspected acid attack on a three-year-old boy at Home Bargains in Worcester on Saturday, and are due to appear at Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court this morning.
Three men from London, aged 22, 25, 26, and two men from Wolverhampton, aged 39 and 41, were charged with “conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm”.
The police have not revealed the identities of the men, or their connection to the infant.
The infant, whose identity has not been revealed by the police, was left with serious acid burns to his arms and face following the attack.
West Mercia police commented on his injuries, stating: “He has since been discharged but the long-term implications of his injuries are unknown at this time.”
It’s an awful incident and we’re really, really concerned about this
The police added the infant was deliberately attacked while seated in his pushchair at 2.15pm on Saturday.
The five men have been remanded in custody.
Detective Inspector Jim Bayliss commented on the attack, stating: “Our officers are continuing to work extremely hard on this investigation.
“At this time we believe this to be an isolated incident and there is not a wider risk to the public.”
The attack occurred in the Tallow Hill area of Worcester.
Police have not yet confirmed the corrosive substance used in the attack.
Chief Superintendent Mark Travis also commented on the attack, stating: “I would like to be very, very clear - there is no evidence to suggest that in any way this incident is motivated by race or anything to do with the EDL protest.
“We are keeping all of the options open but at the moment we consider it was a deliberate act against the little boy.
“It’s an awful incident and we’re really, really concerned about this.”
Local officials also expressed their shock following the incident.
Worcester’s Conservative MP Robin Walker stated that the “shock will be universal”.
Marc Bayliss, Worcester City Council chief, described the attack as “pure evil”.