Taxi driver in hospital with serious injuries after being sprayed in the eyes with 'unknown substance' in High Wycombe

The 43-year-old taxi driver dropped off three customers in George Street at about 1am today (Sunday).

The customers left the taxi, a black Toyota Prius, without paying and so the driver followed them, who then paid him.

But one of the customers then sprayed the substance in the victim’s eyes and fled the scene in an unknown direction.

He was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

A 15 year-old boy has been arrested this evening on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent. He is in police custody.

The customers are described as three black men aged between around 16 and 18-years-old.

Senior investigating officer detective chief inspector Kelly Glister said: “This is an unprovoked attack on a working man who was going about his evening shift as a taxi driver. It is cowardly for a group to attack an individual, especially when they use a weapon.

“The victim is currently in hospital with serious injuries to his eyes. At this stage it is too early to establish what the substance is that was used to attack him.

“I understand that this attack will cause great concern in the local community but I want to reassure the public that the force is conducting a thorough investigation and is determined to find the offenders. Further, I believe this is an isolated incident and is not linked to any other offences.

“The force will also be working with taxi companies to provide reassurance and personal safety advice following this cowardly attack.

“If you recognise the description of the offenders, witnessed the attack or have any information about the offence, no matter how insignificant you think it might be, then please contact police immediately.”

Anyone with information can call police on 101 quoting reference 43170224985, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.”