Counter-terrorism police leading probe into school stabbing in Manchester

Counter-terrorism police leading probe into school stabbing in Manchester Two pupils, both aged 14, and a male member of staff, 27, were wounded in the knife attack - Bookmark Counter-terrorism officers are leading the investigation into a stabbing at a school in Manchester, according to police. Two pupils, both aged 14, and a male member of staff, 27, were wounded in a knife attack at the Co-op Academy in Blackley Tuesday morning, Greater Manchester Police said. On Thursday evening, the force revealed that Counter Terrorism Policing North West is now leading the investigation, with support from Greater Manchester Police after further inquiries. At this time, it has not been declared a terrorist incident, police added. A 14-year-old girl who was arrested on suspicion of assault and later detained under the Mental Health Act has been released to police custody following an assessment by health professionals. All three who were injured have been released from hospital and suffered no serious injuries. Chief Superintendent David Meeney, Commander for Manchester, said: “Our local detectives have been investigating this incident at pace ever since we arrested a schoolgirl suspect on Tuesday morning. “She remains in custody in Manchester. “This has included ensuring the suspect is checked by health professionals to make an assessment while under the Mental Health Act, and to explore all available evidence to understand why this incident took place. “Since our last update, further information has come to light that we have made Counter Terrorism Policing North West aware of. “I know this update will only continue to make our local community concerned by Tuesday’s events. “There is no information to indicate any further threat, and our local officers continue to be in the area. “We are here to listen and to act, so please speak to our officers with any concerns.” Staff at the school in Plant Hill Road were quick to detain a girl after the incident to ensure no further harm came to students or staff before officers arrived shortly afterwards, the force previously said. It is understood that the school placed itself in lockdown after the incident. If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email [email protected], or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you