River-fall survivor’s family ‘overwhelmed by support’

THE family of a Romanian woman who fell from Westminster Bridge into the river Thames during the terrorist attack have said they are “overwhelmed by the love, support and respect” shown for her.

Andreea Cristea, 29, was due to receive a marriage proposal from partner Andrei Burnaz later that day, but was critically injured as attacker Khalid Masood ploughed through pedestrians.

Footage of the atrocity showed Ms Cristea falling from the bridge into the water below.

In a statement, the couple’s families said they were “so grateful” for the work done by the emergency services.

They said: “Andreea is still in a critical but stable condition and benefits from the best medical healthcare possible. We are overwhelmed by the love, support and respect for our Andreea.

“The Metropolitan Police have been and continue to work tirelessly in providing their care and support during this very difficult time.”

Witnesses reported seeing a body lying face-down in the Thames in the wake of the incident.

After being rushed to hospital for treatment, Ms Cristea was diagnosed with a blood clot on the brain and underwent surgery.

Mr Burnaz had an operation on a broken foot but has since been discharged.

Romanian ambassador Dan Mihalache told the BBC: “He intended to ask her for marriage and this was unfortunately their destiny.”