Kingsbury stabbing: Counter-terror police lead school probe

Published: 11 February 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A serious Kingsbury stabbing incident at a north London school has triggered a major police response and urgent investigation. Specialist counter-terror officers are now leading the Kingsbury stabbing inquiry after two young boys were critically injured inside their secondary school. Authorities confirmed the attack happened during the school day and caused immediate panic across the campus and surrounding community.

Emergency services were called to Kingsbury High School in Brent after reports that a student had been attacked. When officers and paramedics arrived, they discovered two boys, aged thirteen and twelve, suffering from stab wounds. Both victims were given urgent medical treatment at the scene before being transported to hospital under emergency conditions. Their injuries were described as serious, and doctors continued close monitoring overnight.

Police quickly detained a thirteen-year-old boy on suspicion of attempted murder following the Kingsbury stabbing report. Investigators also confirmed that a weapon believed to be used in the assault was recovered nearby. The suspect remains in custody and is being questioned by officers as forensic teams examine evidence. Detectives stated that no additional suspects are currently being sought in connection with the incident.

Senior officers said the involvement of specialist teams reflects investigative procedure rather than an immediate terror classification. Counter-terror detectives often support complex or sensitive cases where rapid intelligence assessment is required. Officials stressed that the Kingsbury stabbing has not been formally declared a terrorist incident at this stage. However, every possible motive and background factor is being carefully examined.

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who oversees policing operations in north-west London, addressed the situation publicly on Tuesday evening. He expressed deep concern for both injured boys and acknowledged the emotional strain on families and classmates. He also praised medical teams who delivered rapid treatment under highly pressured and distressing circumstances.

Williams confirmed officers acted quickly after receiving emergency calls from the school during the afternoon period. Responding units secured the grounds, assisted the injured, and began immediate witness coordination inside school buildings. He explained that early evidence gathering is crucial in incidents involving young suspects and vulnerable victims. Speed, accuracy, and safeguarding considerations remain central to the ongoing investigative approach.

Scenes outside the school showed heavy police presence and restricted access points for several hours after dismissal time. A police van blocked the lower school entrance while officers managed movement and protected the active scene. Students were held in supervised areas as officers identified witnesses and recorded early accounts of events. Many pupils appeared visibly shaken as they left later than usual under controlled release arrangements.

Parents gathered nearby while waiting for updates and reunions with their children after the Kingsbury stabbing shock. Several described emotional scenes as students recounted what they saw inside corridors and shared spaces. One parent said many children appeared traumatised after witnessing violence unfold in what should feel like a safe place. Support services were later coordinated to help affected students process the experience.

Headteacher Alex Thomas sent a formal message to parents and carers describing the day as deeply traumatic. He confirmed that two students were stabbed and said the entire school community was affected. He thanked emergency responders and staff members who kept students calm and followed safety procedures throughout the incident. Staff cooperation with police helped maintain order during a confusing and frightening period.

School leadership announced that the lower school site would remain closed the following day to support investigations. Older year groups were permitted to attend under adjusted arrangements and increased safeguarding measures across the campus. Families were advised that further updates would follow once verified facts became available from investigators. Leaders emphasised that rumours should be avoided while the Kingsbury stabbing inquiry continues.

National political figures also responded as news of the school violence spread across the country. The Home Secretary said her thoughts were with the injured children and their families during treatment. She thanked police for their swift arrest and urged the public to allow investigators space to work. She noted that premature speculation could interfere with fairness and accuracy in the legal process.

The Education Secretary described the incident as heartbreaking and confirmed contact with local education authorities and school leaders. Government teams are coordinating with Brent council to ensure emotional and operational support is available where needed. Additional counselling resources are expected to be offered to students and staff affected by the Kingsbury stabbing event. Officials said school safety remains a national priority.

London’s Mayor issued a public appeal for information from anyone who witnessed events linked to the attack. He stressed that silence helps no one when serious violence affects young people and local communities. He said there is no honour in withholding evidence that could clarify what happened. City Hall remains in close contact with Metropolitan Police leadership throughout the investigation period.

Local MPs and council leaders echoed concern and sympathy while urging patience as verified facts are established. Community representatives warned against online misinformation spreading faster than confirmed investigative findings. They praised frontline responders and school staff for decisive actions that may have prevented further harm. Local authorities are preparing outreach efforts to reassure families and reduce fear across the borough.

Medical officials confirmed that multiple specialist resources were dispatched immediately after the emergency call was received. Ambulance crews, advanced paramedics, and tactical response clinicians attended alongside a trauma team from London’s air ambulance. Rapid clinical intervention on site is often critical in severe bleeding cases involving sharp weapon injuries. Hospital teams continued advanced care after both boys were transported from the school.

Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage, witness statements, and digital evidence as part of the Kingsbury stabbing case file. Youth violence specialists are also involved due to the ages of those directly connected to the incident. Safeguarding rules mean certain suspect details cannot be released while the suspect is a minor. Authorities said transparency will be balanced with legal protections for children.

Community safety experts say school incidents create deep psychological impact that extends far beyond physical injuries alone. Recovery often requires structured counselling, peer support, and consistent reassurance from trusted adults and institutions. Brent support services are coordinating with education and health partners to provide that structured response. Early intervention can reduce long-term trauma effects among witnesses and close friends.

Police repeated that the investigation remains active and fast-moving, with updates expected as verified evidence emerges. Officers asked the public not to circulate unconfirmed claims or graphic descriptions across social media platforms. Responsible reporting helps protect victims, minors, and the integrity of legal proceedings that will follow. The Kingsbury stabbing investigation will continue under specialist leadership until full circumstances are established.

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