A 13-year-old former pupil has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a double stabbing at Kingsbury High School in Brent, north-west London.
The incident happened shortly before 12:40pm on Tuesday, when police were called to reports that two students had been stabbed inside the school. The victims, boys aged 12 and 13, were taken to hospital with serious injuries. Police have since confirmed that their conditions are stable and not believed to be life-threatening.
How the Attack Unfolded
Speaking at a press conference, Detective Chief Superintendent Helen Flanagan of Counter Terrorism Policing London said the suspect arrived at the school at around 12:30pm.
After entering the building, he went to a first-floor classroom, where he sprayed a substance towards one pupil before stabbing a 13-year-old boy. He then ran through the corridor and stairs, attacking a second victim, aged 12, before fleeing the scene.
Police said the spray is not believed to have been noxious, but the boy affected is being treated as a victim and is receiving support.
Arrest at Mosque and Police Response
Following the attack, armed officers launched an immediate manhunt. At around 4:15pm, police received a call from a member of the public reporting concern about a child seen at a mosque in NW10.
Officers attended shortly afterwards and arrested the suspect.
Detective Chief Superintendent Flanagan stressed that the arrest location was coincidental.
She said police do not believe the boy has any connection to the mosque and confirmed that staff and worshippers there have been “incredibly supportive” of the investigation.
Counter-Terrorism Police Lead Investigation
Counter Terrorism Policing London is leading the inquiry due to early concerns about possible extremist motivation. However, police say the incident has not been declared a terrorist attack.
Officers are keeping an open mind and are exploring several possible motives.
At this stage, investigators believe the suspect acted alone and are not seeking anyone else in connection with the case.
Ongoing Enquiries
Police have carried out searches at three locations, including two addresses linked to the suspect and the mosque where he was arrested.
Around 30 to 40 witnesses, many of them children, are being interviewed by specially trained officers. Investigators have also seized devices, recovered CCTV footage and are conducting forensic examinations.
Officers have confirmed that the suspect is a British national who was born and lives in the UK. No further personal details will be released due to his age.
School and Community Impact
Kingsbury High School said the situation is now under control and that it is working closely with authorities. Specialist family liaison officers have been assigned to support the victims and their families.
Students have since shared on social media that the stabbings took place in a science classroom.
Police say their priority remains supporting those affected and gathering evidence to progress the case. Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.