Seven Lancashire Police officers hospitalised after chemical spray attack during house raid, sergeant in serious condition

A total of seven officers were taken by colleagues to the Royal Blackburn Hospital after they were sprayed with ammonia fluid while attending an emergency call in Darwen.

A Lancashire Police officer has suffered serious injuries after he was sprayed with ammonia fluid while attending an emergency call in Darwen.

A number of officers had forced entry to a home in Darwen following reports of a domestic incident when they were sprayed with what is believed to be an ammonia cleaning liquid.

The assailant escaped through a first floor window but was arrested a short time later.

A total of seven officers were taken by colleagues to the Royal Blackburn Hospital

UPDATE: Lancashire Police sergeant must undergo surgery to save eyesight after chemical spray attack

One of them, a Sergeant, has suffered severe damage to his eyes, throat and respiratory system and will require surgery to save his eyesight.

He was admitted to Preston Royal Hospital but has since been discharged. He will undergo surgery on his left eye next week.

The others, all PCs, suffered less serious injuries and have since been discharged.

The incident happened shortly before 2am this morning (Tuesday, April 16).

Supt Andrea Barrow, of Lancashire Police, said: “This shocking incident from the early hours of the morning has left an officer with some significant and serious injuries.

"My thoughts are with him and his family and I wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to his return to work.”

Chief Constable Andy Rhodes added: “My thoughts are with this officer and all of those affected by this incident, which shows once again the dangers that officers face and how they put their lives on the line each and every day to protect people.”

A 46-year old man from Darwen is currently being held on suspicion of Section 18 wounding.

Enquiries are on-going.