Counter-Terrorism Police Assume Control of Investigation Following School Stabbings in North-West London
Counter-terrorism officers are now leading the investigation into a violent incident at Kingsbury High School in Brent, north-west London, where two young boys were stabbed on Tuesday afternoon. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a 13-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder in connection with the attack.
Details of the Violent Incident at Kingsbury High School
Police were called to the school at 12.40pm on Tuesday following reports that a 13-year-old boy had been stabbed. Upon arrival, officers discovered that a second victim, a 12-year-old boy, had also suffered stab wounds. Both victims are understood to be in serious condition following the attack.
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, speaking at the school, confirmed that the suspect, believed to be 13 years old, fled the scene after the stabbing but was subsequently arrested following urgent police inquiries. Officers also recovered a weapon believed to have been used in the attack.
"The suspect was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody for questioning by our officers," Mr Williams stated. "We are keeping an open mind as to any motivation behind the attack. However, due to the surrounding circumstances, the investigation is now being led by officers from counter terrorism policing London."
School Community Reeling from Traumatic Event
The headteacher of Kingsbury High School, Alex Thomas, described the incident as "a deeply traumatic event for the whole school community" in a letter sent to parents and carers. Mr Thomas announced that the Lower School would remain closed on Wednesday, while the Upper School would be open for students in Years 10-13.
On Tuesday evening, more than three hours after the normal school day ended, pupils were still being interviewed by police officers in one of the school halls. Some students were seen leaving the premises in tears, with one parent noting that children were obviously "traumatised by what happened in front of them."
Political Figures Express Shock and Offer Support
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the incident as a "shocking attack" and extended her thoughts and prayers to the victims, their families, and all those affected. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson stated she was "heartbroken" to hear about the stabbings and confirmed that her department was in contact with the school and local council to offer support.
Local MP Bob Blackman expressed being "deeply shocked and saddened" by the news, while Brent Council leader Muhammed Butt described the incident as "deeply shocking and distressing." Mayor of London Sadiq Khan emphasized that "this awful violence has absolutely no place in our city" and urged anyone with information to contact police immediately.
Background on Kingsbury High School
Kingsbury High School is an academy serving children aged 11 to 18 across both upper and lower sites. According to the latest Department for Education information, the school has 1,997 pupils. The institution traces its origins to Kingsbury County School, which opened in 1925 in a building that had previously served as the office of the Aircraft Manufacturing Company.
Notable alumni of Kingsbury High School include:
- George Michael of Wham!
- Jazz musician Courtney Pine
- Floyd Steadman, the first black captain of the Saracens rugby team
- Writer Ekow Eshun
While the investigation has not currently been declared a terrorist incident, counter-terrorism officers are working closely with local police to gather evidence and establish the full circumstances of what occurred as quickly as possible.
