A 13-year-old British boy has been killed in a stabbing in Portugal, in a violent incident that also left the alleged perpetrator dead following a gas explosion.
Domestic Violence Alert Ends in Tragedy
Portuguese authorities were called to a property in the city of Tomar following an alert concerning a suspected domestic violence situation. Upon arrival, officers from the National Republican Guard (GNR) discovered a harrowing scene.
The boy's mother was found showing clear signs of having been restrained and assaulted. She was rushed to the nearest hospital for treatment. Inside the home, police located the teenager and a man, both with multiple injuries inflicted by a bladed weapon.
Despite emergency responders detecting vital signs at the scene, both individuals were declared dead shortly afterwards.
Explosion Injures Officer as Suspect's History Revealed
The situation escalated dangerously when officers noted a strong smell of gas within the property. Moments later, an explosion occurred, injuring one of the GNR officers at the scene.
The Judicial Police, who are leading the investigation, identified the deceased man as the former partner of the boy's mother. The alleged assailant had a serious criminal record, having previously served a prison sentence for aggravated homicide.
Authorities confirmed that the family was already known to them, with domestic violence cases registered in both 2022 and 2023.
Foreign Office Provides Support
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has acknowledged the incident. A spokesperson stated: "We are in contact with the local authorities following an incident in Portugal, and stand ready to provide consular support."
The case, which has shocked the local community in Tomar, remains under active investigation by the Portuguese Judicial Police as they work to establish the full sequence of events.
