A 14-year-old girl has appeared in court charged with attempting to murder two students and a teacher in a knife attack at a school in Manchester. The incident occurred in a form class at Co-op Academy on Plant Hill Road, Blackley, on Tuesday.
Court Appearance
The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared via videolink at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday. She is charged with three counts of attempted murder and two counts of possessing a bladed article on school premises.
During the brief hearing, the girl spoke only to confirm her name, date of birth, and address. District Judge Briony Clarke told the defendant: "Because of the seriousness of the charges that you face, I have to send this matter to the crown court."
Victims and Investigation
Teacher Maysum Abdullah, 27, suffered a wound to his neck. The court heard that all three victims have now been released from hospital. Two pupils, both aged 14, and Mr Abdullah were injured, according to Greater Manchester Police (GMP). All three suffered no serious injuries.
The alleged attack is being investigated by Counter Terrorism Police, but at this time it has not been declared a terrorist incident.
Next Steps
The case was transferred to the crown court, and the girl was remanded in youth detention after the hearing. The teenager will next appear at the Old Bailey on June 19 and has been remanded to youth detention accommodation in the meantime.
