Plymouth Acid Attack

Police responded to reports of a violent disturbance at a property on Lipson Road in Plymouth. Upon arrival, they found a man in his 30s with severe injuries caused by a destructive substance. The victim was rushed to hospital and later transferred to a specialist burns unit.

Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that the attack was targeted. Investigators stated that the suspects had fled the scene before officers arrived.

Police issued an appeal for witnesses and CCTV footage from the Lipson Road area.

A heavy police presence remained at the crime scene for days as forensic officers examined the property. Officers later confirmed that acid had been used in the attack.

Reports emerged that two suspects were seen in the Wiltshire village of Grittleton, over 140 miles from the crime scene. Witnesses claimed the men asked for help charging their phones before receiving a lift to a train station. A national manhunt was launched.

The National Crime Agency (NCA) became involved in the investigation after concerns that the suspects may have fled the country. Read more here. 

Elon Musk responded to a post on X that spread misinformation about the attack, calling the incident 'terrible.' The post falsely claimed that a teenage girl had been injured, fueling speculation online. Plymouth Plus investigated and debunked the claim, with police later confirming that no teenage girl was harmed in the attack. Read more here. 

A 25-year-old man from London was arrested in London on suspicion of attempted murder after the acid attack in Plymouth.

Israel Augustus, 25, of Pulford Road, London, charged with applying a destructive substance with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group, being concerned in the supply of class A drugs (cocaine, MDMA, and ketamine), being concerned in the supply of a class B drug (cannabis), possession of an offensive weapon in a private place, aggravated burglary, and possession of a knife blade/sharp-pointed article in a public place.

Augustus remains in custody and is due to appear before Plymouth Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, Saturday, 8 March 2025.