Police call off inquiry into fire 'attack' on boy
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.(First Edition)
POLICE yesterday called off their inquiry into allegations that a man set fire to a seven-year-old boy's face because they no longer believe the attack took place.
They reached the conclusion after hearing witness accounts of the alleged attack on Derek Cripps on Wednesday. Derek and his friend Paul Guglieri, eight, claimed they were attacked while they were playing in King George's Park, Wandsworth, south London.
A Scotland Yard spokesman said: 'Witnesses have come forward. As a result and from our own inquiries we are satisfied that an assault as alleged did not take place.'
There will be no further action on the case and the inquiry has been closed.
Derek is undergoing treatment in the burns unit of Queen Mary's Hospital, Roehampton, south London.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments