Injured policeman in Schaerbeek leaves hospital with long hedge of honour

Many police officers from the Brussels-North police zone went in uniform to the Universitair Ziekenhuis van Brussel (UZ) hospital in Jette this Saturday 12 November. Forming a long guard of honour, they greeted their colleague who was leaving the hospital. Jason P., 23, was admitted on Thursday evening following a violent stabbing in Schaerbeek, which claimed the life of his teammate.

The policeman was released from the hospital this afternoon. Jason was welcomed by many colleagues, who came to salute his courage and wish him a speedy recovery.

On Thursday evening, Jason P. and his colleague Thomas M., two police officers from the Brussels-North police zone, were patrolling by car in the North train station district of Schaerbeek. Around 7 PM, when they were stopped at a red light in the rue d'Aerschot, they were attacked by an individual armed with a knife.

The assailant stabbed Thomas M., driving the police vehicle, in the neck. Then attacked the passenger, Jason P., stabbing him in the arm. The latter had the reflex to call for reinforcements, stating that the attacker had shouted "Allah Ouakhbar". The aggressor was neutralized by a second patrol which fired on him.

The two injured officers were rushed to the hospital. Thomas M. did not survive his serious injuries. The 29-year-old police officer died. Jason P. was able to be treated and his life was no longer considered in danger on Friday. He was released from the hospital today.

An investigation is underway into these facts, led by the federal prosecutor's office. An anti-terrorism investigating judge has been appointed to carry out the investigations.

(VIV)

 _{#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO (FRANCOIS WALSCHAERTS)}