The Westminster terror attack lasted only 82 seconds, Scotland Yard has said.
Kha
lid Masood’s attack began at 2.40pm on Wednesday, and was over by 2.41pm, according to a detailed investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command.
The car the terrorist was driving first mounted the northbound pavement on Westminster Bridge at 2.40pm and 8 seconds.
Police say he then continued towards Bridge Street along both the footpath and road, before crashing into the Palace of Westminster’s perimeter fence at 2.40pm and 38 seconds.
The first 999 call to the Met was made at 2.40pm and 59 seconds.
Masood then left his car and was shot by a police firearms officer inside the Palace of Westminster boundary at 2.41pm and 30 seconds.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, senior national coordinator for UK Counter Terrorism Policing, said: We still believe that Masood acted alone on the day and there is no information or intelligence to suggest there are further attacks planned.
But while he added that police need to establish with absolute clarity why he did these unspeakable acts, DAC Basu acknowledged there is a possibility we will never understand why he did this.
That understanding may have died with him, he added.
Khalid Masood He continued: Nevertheless, we are determined to understand if Masood was a lone actor inspired by terrorist propaganda or if others have encouraged, supported or directed him.
If the latter proves to be the case, they will face justice.
Whilst the attack lasted only 82 seconds it will remain in the memories of many forever.
The thoughts of all those working on this investigation are with those so deeply affected.
Meanwhile, the family of PC Keith Palmer, who was stabbed to death by Masood despite wearing a protective vest, have thanked those who were with the officer in his final moments, saying: There was nothing more you could have done.
Keith Palmer In a statement, they said: We want to thank everyone who has reached out to us over the past few days for their kindness and generosity.
The police have been a constant, unwavering support at this very difficult time. It has made us realise what a caring, strong and supportive family Keith was part of during his career with the police. We can’t thank them enough.
Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood, who has been appointed to the Privy Council after trying to save PC Palmer’s life, has said he is “heartbroken” that his efforts were ultimately unsuccessful.
The Foreign Office minister was pictured with blood on his face and clothes as he tried to give PC Palmer mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and stem the blood amid the carnage in New Palace Yard
Mr Ellwood said in a statement: I am heartbroken that I could not do more for PC Keith Palmer who gave his life in holding the line against terrorism and defending democracy. I shall be writing to the family of PC Palmer to offer my sincere condolences.
He added: I played only a small part that day, doing what I was taught to do, and am honoured to have been invited to join the Privy Council afterwards.
Anyone who has information to contribute about the attack is asked to call the anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321.