Five boys were seriously injured after being stabbed at a Halloween party in Chandler's Ford, Hampshire, on Saturday evening, police have said.
An investigation has been launched after an "unknown group" gained entry to a party at an address in Park Road. Officers were called shortly after 10.30pm following a report that five boys had been stabbed.
Victims taken to hospital
All of the boys, three aged 16 and two aged 17, were taken to hospital with serious injuries, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said. Police remained at the scene on Sunday as enquiries continued.
Appeal for witnesses
Senior investigating officer DCI Elizabeth Pirie said: "We are already hard at work identifying anyone who was at the party who may be able to assist our enquiries, whether that be having directly witnessed what took place, having filmed any footage which may be relevant, or who may be able to help us identify the unknown group."
She added: "I understand the response the local community may have to hearing about this incident this morning, and I do not underestimate the impact our scenes will be having on those living in the area. These scenes are vitally important for our enquiries and we are grateful to the understanding of our communities whilst we work to establish the facts."
How to provide information
Anyone who was at the party and has not yet spoken with officers, or who has CCTV, mobile phone, dash cam or doorbell camera footage covering Park Road and the surrounding area, is asked to contact the force by calling 101 and quoting reference 44260534624, or by going to the website. Information can also be submitted anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
