London School Stabbing: Counter-Terrorism Police Investigate 'American-Style' Attack
Counter-terrorism police in London are leading a major investigation into what has been described as an "American-style" stabbing incident at Kingsbury High School in northwest London. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon, left two boys aged 12 and 13 with serious injuries after they were stabbed during a science lesson.
Timeline of the Violent Incident
Police were alerted to the stabbing at 12:40 pm local time on Tuesday following reports of violence at the comprehensive secondary school in Kingsbury. Armed response units arrived at the scene within an impressive 13 minutes of receiving the emergency call, demonstrating rapid deployment to contain the situation.
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams provided crucial details about the police response: "The suspect left the scene following the stabbing. After urgent enquiries our officers arrested him and also recovered a weapon which we believe to have been used in the stabbing. We are not currently looking for anyone else."
Suspect Profile and Arrest Details
A 13-year-old boy has been formally arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody where he is being intensively questioned. According to local media reports, the suspect is a former pupil who had been expelled from the school for previous fighting incidents.
The investigation has revealed that the expelled student allegedly climbed over the school wall to gain unauthorized entry while wearing his old school uniform. Witnesses report that he shouted "Allahu Akbar" as he launched the attack during a science class, though authorities have not declared this a terrorist incident at this preliminary stage.
Attack Methodology and Victim Injuries
The violent assault unfolded with disturbing precision:
- The suspect reportedly sprayed pepper spray on both the children and their science teacher upon entering the classroom
- He allegedly targeted one boy "in revenge" for previous conflicts
- The second victim was stabbed after he set off the fire alarm in an attempt to alert others
- One boy suffered a stab wound to the neck while the other was stabbed in the stomach
Both injured students were rushed to hospital where they remain in serious but stable condition. Police have confirmed that their injuries, while significant, are not life-threatening.
School Response and Community Impact
Kingsbury High School immediately implemented a full lockdown procedure following the attack, with pupils being held securely in the playground until authorities could ensure their safety. The incident has created widespread fear among parents and students, with some community members now calling for metal detectors to be installed at school entrances as a preventive measure.
Detective Chief Superintendent Williams emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation: "At this very early stage, we are keeping an open mind as to any motivation behind this attack."
Community Context and School Profile
Kingsbury represents a multicultural area with a significant Indian ethnic population, adding complex social dimensions to the investigation. The attacked institution, Kingsbury High School, is an academy school serving students aged 11 to 18. The school boasts notable alumni including Wham's George Michael and acclaimed jazz musician Courtney Pine.
The incident has raised serious questions about school security, youth violence prevention, and community safety protocols in urban educational environments.
