The V-2 missile, developed by German engineers during World War II, was the world's first long-range guided ballistic missile. On this occasion, a single V-2 rocket launched from the continent struck a Woolworth's store located in the New Cross area of London. The attack took place against the backdrop of the ongoing hostilities and was part of a series of attempted bombings aimed at disrupting life in Britain. When the rocket impacted, it obliterated the retail space, leaving a scene of destruction and chaos that shocked the local community.

Emergency services were overwhelmed as they responded to the tragedy, working tirelessly to rescue survivors trapped under the debris. The toll of 168 lives lost and many more wounded was a stark reminder of the war's far-reaching consequences. The attack served as a pivotal moment in understanding the implications and effectiveness of advanced weaponry, and the vulnerability of civilian areas amidst military operations.

In the aftermath of the attack, there was increased scrutiny of Britain's defense measures against aerial attacks. This incident, among others, prompted the British government to reassess their strategies and improve infrastructure to reduce the casualties from such surprise attacks. The event remains a significant example of wartime civilian casualties due to technological advancements in weaponry.