14-year-old boy dies after man goes on sword rampage in horrifying attack
Earlier today (30 April), a 36-year-old man was arrested in Hainault, east London, following a frenzied sword attack.
Reports stated several people had been stabbed and it has now been confirmed that a 14-year-old boy has tragically died.
The teenage boy had died of his wounds in hospital, and The Metropolitan Police has shared that he was among five people injured in total.
Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell said: "Everyone at the Met is keeping them in their thoughts at this unimaginably difficult time."
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As well as the tragic loss of the teen boy, two police officers will require surgery, but Bell has confirmed that their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.
Additionally, two members of the public were wounded by the armed man, but their injuries aren't understood to be life-threatening either.
The attack has been termed 'horrific', and Bell stated that officers are attempting to find out 'the full facts, as a priority'.
Police have shared that the attack 'does not appear to have been terror related'.
The Met shared the following statement earlier on today: "Police and other emergency services are in Hainault, east London, at a serious incident in which a man with a sword has been arrested.
“We were called shortly before 7am to reports of a vehicle being driven into a house in the Thurlow Gardens area. There were reports people have been stabbed.
"At this time we understand the suspect went on to attack other members of the public and two police officers.
“We are awaiting an update on the condition of those injured. A 36-year-old man was arrested at the scene and he is in custody.”
Bell added: "I know the families of those involved, the local and wider community and many across London will want to know why this terrible incident occurred.
"It's our job to find out, and we will.
"I am committed to providing those answers when we can and I would ask for some patience while this important work is carried out."
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has since shared his own sentiments on the attack.
He said: "I'm sure I speak for the entire city when I say our thoughts are with this young child and his family.
"It breaks my heart not only that this child has lost his life, but two members of our emergency services have risked their own safety to make sure others weren't injured.
"It shows the danger our police officers face every day and I thank them for their bravery."
Kya Buller