Teenager Killed And Several Injured In Sword Attack In East London

An attack in east London has left a 14-year-old boy dead and four others injured, including two police officers who sustained serious wounds. 

According to the metropolitan police, the 36-year-old man was apprehended after authorities were alerted to a vehicle crashing into a residence in Thurlow Gardens, before 7am on Tuesday.

Stay up-to-date on the latest news with The National Briefing – keeping you in the loop with news as it hits:

The man was wielding a sword, and was believed to have initiated a series of attacks lasting approximately 20 minutes in and around the tube station.

Police arrested the man with a Taser, 22 minutes following the initial emergency call.

Eyewitnesses described being awoken by screams and witnessing a number of emergency vehicles racing to the scene. 

Ch Supt Stuart Bell said the incident was “truly horrific”.

“It is with great sadness that I confirm one of those injured in the incident, a (14-year-old) boy, has died from their injuries.”

Bell said that the injuries sustained by the two police officers were significant but not life-threatening.

The Metropolitan police said they do not suspect terrorism involvement and believe the man acted alone.

Mobile phone footage captured during the incident showed a casually dressed individual wielding a long knife resembling a sword. 

Hainault underground station was closed due to this incident.

The attack occurred during the morning rush hour, resulting in the closure of Hainault underground station.

In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “This is a shocking incident. My thoughts are with those affected and their families.”

“I’d like to thank the emergency services for their ongoing response, and pay tribute to the extraordinary bravery shown by police on the scene. Such violence has no place on our streets.”

Subscribe to The Briefing, Australia’s fastest-growing news podcast on LiSTNR today. The Briefing serves up the latest news and deep dives on topics affecting you, all in under 20 minutes.