A 14-year-old boy is confirmed to have died following a shocking attack in London, where a man attacked multiple people with a sword.
Police were called to Hainault, East London, at around 7AM on Tuesday morning to reports of a man armed with a large blade and several injured people.
According to reports, a van drove into a house on Thurlow Gardens, before the suspect, a 36-year-old man, went on to attack members of the public as well as two police officers.
Two civilians and two police officers were taken to hospital for their injuries, while a 14-year-old boy who was attacked is confirmed to have died.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the man was arrested and say they do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the community, and that the incident does not appear to be terrorism-related.
James Fernando, who witnessed the horrifying scene, told the Evening Standard that he saw the child being struck with the sword.
He told the outlet: "I saw a guy get out of a grey transit after crashing into a house. I saw him strike a boy with the sword. Police turned up and he ran.
"I stood next to the boy. It looked like he was gone. I was in total shock. He was in sports clothes. I can’t stop seeing the boy’s face.”
Following news of the tragedy, London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed his sorrow, telling reporters: "I’m sure I speak on behalf of the entire city when I say our thoughts and prayers are with this young child and his family."
He praised the police and emergency services for responding "very quickly", stating that they were "well aware this was a dangerous man with a sword”.
Home Secretary James Cleverly added on Twitter (now known as X): "To hear the [14-year-old] victim of this morning’s appalling attack in Ilford has died is heartbreaking.
"I send my heartfelt condolences to the family. This will be an incredibly challenging time for the local community and my thoughts remain with all those affected.”
Police are now working to establish the circumstances of the incident. with Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell adding that the investigation is in its "very early stages”, adding: "I know the families of those involved, the community and many across London will want to know why this terrible incident happened.
"We are committed to providing those answers when we can and I would ask for patience while this important work is carried out.”
He also commended the "incredible bravery" of the officers and emergency services that "raced to the scene".
Police have yet to confirm whether or not the suspect was known to police, but CS Bell added: "We don’t believe this to be a targeted attack and we are establishing the circumstances at the moment.
“The man was arrested this morning at the scene … I’m not going to be commenting on any of those questions other than the information I have released. We will share that information when it’s appropriate and when we know the answers.”
The suspect was Tasered at the scene and was arrested 22 minutes after the first call was made to police. Nobody else is sought in connection with the attack.
Four victims remain in hospital, two of whom are police officers, and their injuries are believed to be significant but not life-threatening.
CS Bell confirmed that the 14-year-old boy had been taken to hospital after being stabbed, where he later died. His family is being supported by police.
Our thoughts remain with all those affected by this incident.
