Terrifying Costco assault plunges retailer into lockdown as medics rush to 10 customers

Police said 10 people – including the youth that was arrested – were treated at the scene for injuries caused by the spraying of the liquid during the terrifying incident at the Costco store

A teenage boy has been arrested after members of the public were attacked by a home-made “chilli spray” at a branch of Costco.

Police and ambulance crews were called to the wholesale store in Avonmouth in Bristol after people reported a stinging in their eyes at around 6.30pm on Monday.

Avon and Somerset Police said 10 people – including the boy – were treated at the scene after complaining of stinging or itchy eyes and skin.

He was held on suspicion of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm and administering a noxious substance and remains in custody.

Crews did not need to take anyone to hospital and the spray contained no strong acid or alkaline ingredient, police say. Officers left the scene at around 9pm.

One shopper posted: “There was a chemical attack on someone and the police were treating it as a terrorist attack.

“I and 100+ people got locked in and weren’t allowed out while they looked into it.”

A police spokesman said: “Emergency services were called to Costco in Avonmouth, Bristol, just after 6.30pm on Monday 17 February. A teenage boy was detained by members of the public after reportedly spraying people with an unknown liquid. The liquid is believed to be a type of home-made “chilli spray” with no strong acid or alkaline ingredients.

“A juvenile was arrested on suspicion of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm and administering a noxious substance, and remains in police custody.”

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