Londoners hold an emotional tribute to those killed by terror
- Text by Theo McInnes // Michael Segalov
- Photography by Theo McInnes
It was just after 10pm on Saturday night when the London ambulance service received its first phone call from London Bridge. According to a caller, a white van had ploughed into pedestrians right in the heart of the capital. Just a minute later the police would receive the same report.
For three men, this was the start of a bloody rampage – one that would leave 48 injured and at least seven dead. The indiscriminate killing, just weeks after a suicide bomber in Manchester caused deadly havoc, has left London shaken.
While a police cordon remained in place around parts of the London Bridge and Borough Market area, the identities of the killers and those brutally murdered still being released by the authorities, Londoners gathered together just a stone’s throw from where the incident took place to stand united in mourning and defiance.
Flowers were placed down in tribute by religious leaders, emergency service bosses and politicians from parties across the political spectrum. Rain might have been falling heavily in Potters Fields beside City Hall, but thousands turned out regardless. A minute’s silence was held by all those present. Another will take place at 11am on Tuesday morning.
A sombre mood was felt through the gathered crowds, but so too was a sense of strength and defiance. The nature of these recent attacks in Britain might well leave you shaken; being afraid is nothing to be ashamed of. But last night Londoners turned up to say they would not cower. To say that whatever happens London will continue to thrive.
Photographer Theo McInnes headed down to capture the vigil.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
You might like
Queer resistance & sun-soaked solidarity at the world’s largest trans pride march
Our Future, Our Fight — Over the weekend, over 150,000 people marched at the London Trans+ Pride, with the parade ending at Trafalgar Square for the first time in history.
Written by: Ella Glossop
In photos: Black Texas life since emancipation
Kinship & Community — A new photobook and exhibition showcases the rich culture, history and community of African American folks in the Lone Star State, whose existence in the region predates colonial Britain.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Inside Parkuir: the art project queering sport, space and our bodies
Lie and play — Founded by Maria Laudes and Guiu Gimeno, it provides a framework for engaging, subverting, and celebrating the small details that make people unique – and queer.
Written by: Molly Lipson
London’s largest indoor skatepark to be demolished for padel courts
Better Extreme — The Barking skatepark’s fate follows that of similar indoor spaces in recent years, with operators GLL citing falling visitor numbers as the reason behind the decision.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Youthful joy & end-of-era poignancy at a London school prom
Leavers — For several years, Lewis Khan documented young people as they celebrated the last of their school days and the completion of their exams. The series is now collated in a new self-published photobook and short film.
Written by: Zoe Whitfield
Harry Gruyaert’s vintage, kaleidoscopic scenes of New York
A Sense of Place — For 50 years, the Belgian photographer and Magnum Photos member has been capturing NYC’s colourful chaos. A new photobook and exhibition showcase his unique, technicolour view of the city.
Written by: Miss Rosen
