< Back

Westminster attack 2017

On March 22, 2017, Khalid Masood drove a car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, injuring over 50 people and killing four before crashing into the perimeter fence of the Palace of Westminster. He then ran into New Palace Yard, where he fatally stabbed an unarmed police officer before being shot dead by armed officers. The attack was treated as Islamist-related terrorism, though UK authorities found no direct links between Masood and any terrorist organization.

The Incident:

At approximately 2:40 PM GMT, Khalid Masood, a 52-year-old British-born man, carried out a deadly attack in the heart of London. Driving a rented Hyundai Tucson, he accelerated onto Westminster Bridge, deliberately targeting pedestrians. His vehicle plowed through the crowd, injuring over 50 people and killing four. The victims included tourists and London residents, one of whom later died from injuries sustained in the attack. Masood continued driving and crashed into the perimeter fence of the Palace of Westminster.

Exiting the car, he ran toward New Palace Yard, armed with a knife. He then fatally stabbed PC Keith Palmer, an unarmed officer stationed at the entrance to Parliament. Chaos ensued as police and security personnel rushed to intervene. Within 82 seconds of beginning his rampage, armed officers shot Masood, who succumbed to his wounds.

The Investigations:

UK authorities immediately launched a counterterrorism investigation, led by Scotland Yard’s Counter Terrorism Command. Given the attack’s location, close to the seat of government, the incident was treated as an act of terrorism. Masood, a convert to Islam, was found to have an extensive criminal record but no prior terrorism convictions.

The investigation focused on determining whether Masood had direct links to terrorist organizations. While ISIS claimed responsibility,

Intelligence agencies did not find evidence proving operational ties. Masood appeared to have acted alone, inspired by extremist ideology. Officials examined his digital footprint, uncovering messages expressing jihadist sentiment, though no specific plot was shared with others.

Security agencies also scrutinized Masood’s movements prior to the attack. He had stayed in Brighton and Birmingham in the days leading up to the incident, possibly planning his actions in isolation. Authorities interrogated several individuals from Masood’s past, but none were charged.

Aftermath and Response:

The attack reignited debates over security measures near Parliament and raised concerns over "lone actor" terrorism—perpetrated by individuals without direct group affiliations. It also led to tightened anti-terror policing across the UK. A formal inquest later confirmed the attack was Islamist-inspired, but there were no failures in security procedures that allowed it to occur.

The victims were honored, and PC Keith Palmer was posthumously awarded the George Medal for bravery.