Probe launched into London sword attack after man's arrest
The deadly sword attack in east London has sparked an urgent investigation by local authorities. The tragic incident, which occurred on Tuesday morning, resulted in the death of a 14-year-old boy and left four others injured. Police were alerted to the situation following reports of a vehicle crashing into a house in the Thurlow Gardens area of Hainault just before 7:00am. The suspect, a 36-year-old man, was apprehended approximately 22 minutes later.
Injuries and arrests in wake of sword attack
During the incident, two police officers and two civilians sustained injuries. The suspect is currently under arrest on suspicion of murder but has not been questioned due to injuries he sustained when his van collided with a building. Meanwhile, Chief Supertindent Stuart Bell of the Metropolitan Police appealed for patience. He said, "I know the families of those involved...and many across London will want to know why this terrible incident occurred...It's our job to find that out and we will."
Suspect's background and incident details unveiled
The Met's assistant commissioner, Louisa Rolfe, addressed speculation about the suspect's background and previous police contact. He said, "Despite urgent checks...we have found no trace of a prior incident involving him so far, but we will of course continue to make those inquiries." The Counter Terrorism Policing headquarters has determined that this incident is not related to terrorism. Investigators believe that the man acted alone and are also looking into whether the suspect has a history of mental ill health.
Eyewitness accounts and aftermath of the attack
Eyewitnesses suggest that the 14-year-old victim was killed after walking past the scene and being attacked with the sword. The suspect was eventually cornered near a front driveway while still holding the sword, before being tasered twice, overpowered and handcuffed. He was then taken to hospital for treatment of his injuries. Four people, including two police officers who required surgery, remain in hospital.
