A 14-year-old boy has been arrested after a stabbing at a school in Manchester, police have confirmed. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon at a school in the Wythenshawe area. Officers were called to the scene at around 2:30pm following reports of a serious assault.
Victim in Serious Condition
The victim, a 15-year-old boy, suffered stab wounds and was taken to hospital with serious injuries. He remains in a stable condition, according to Greater Manchester Police. The suspect was arrested at the scene and is currently being questioned by detectives.
Police Investigation Ongoing
Police have cordoned off the area and are conducting forensic examinations. A Section 60 order has been granted, allowing officers to stop and search people in the vicinity without reasonable suspicion. Detective Superintendent Jamie Daniels said: 'This is a deeply concerning incident, and our thoughts are with the victim and his family. We are working tirelessly to establish the circumstances that led to this attack.'
School Community in Shock
The school, which has not been named, has sent a letter to parents informing them of the incident. It said that the school would be closed on Friday as a precaution. Parents and pupils have expressed shock and concern. One parent told the Manchester Evening News: 'It's terrifying to think something like this could happen at a school. We just want our children to be safe.'
Rise in Knife Crime
This incident comes amid a worrying rise in knife crime across the UK. According to official figures, there were over 45,000 knife-related offences in England and Wales in the year ending March 2023, a 10% increase from the previous year. Campaigners are calling for more action to tackle the root causes of youth violence.
Greater Manchester Police have urged anyone with information to come forward. They can be contacted on 101 quoting incident number 1798 of 21/09/2023, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
