‘Acid Attack’ Outside UK McDonald’s Sparks Panic

A routine afternoon outside a busy McDonald’s turned into chaos after a man was allegedly attacked with acid in front of horrified shoppers.

The shocking incident unfolded around 4 p.m. Thursday in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, as emergency crews rushed to Warrington Road following reports of what police described as a “hazmat incident.”

Witnesses watched in disbelief as a man in his 30s suffered painful injuries after a corrosive substance was reportedly thrown at him outside the fast-food restaurant in the crowded town center.

Police, firefighters, and specialist hazmat crews quickly swarmed the scene, sealing off part of the busy street while stunned shoppers looked on.

The victim was rushed to the hospital for treatment. Authorities later confirmed that his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing, though the terrifying attack sparked major panic in the area.

Two men, believed to be in their 40s and 50s, were arrested on suspicion of assault shortly after the incident and remain in police custody as investigators work to piece together exactly what happened.

Greater Manchester Police said emergency services responded after reports of a hazardous materials situation at a business property on Warrington Road.

“A scene remains in place, and there is not believed to be any risk to the wider public,” the department said in a statement.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service also confirmed that two fire crews were sent to the scene to assist with the dangerous situation.

The disturbing attack left many residents shaken, especially as families and shoppers were still moving through the busy area when the violence erupted.

Acid attacks, while rare, continue to spark fear because of the devastating injuries they can cause. The incident also comes months after two teenage boys were hospitalized in east London when a corrosive liquid was thrown during a violent street fight.

Police have not yet revealed what may have led to the attack outside the McDonald’s, and the investigation remains ongoing.