Community leaders, police and school staff have reassured families after a stabbing at Kingsbury High left two pupils in a stable condition; the suspect, a 13-year-old former pupil and British national, is in custody
A violent incident at Kingsbury High in Brent has left the borough shaken. Two boys, aged 12 and 13, were injured and taken to hospital; officials say both are in a stable condition. The immediate focus for school leaders, council staff and emergency services is the boys’ recovery and the wellbeing of pupils and staff.
What happened
Police say the incident began around midday when a person entered a classroom, assaulted pupils and then left the premises. A 13‑year‑old, believed to be a former pupil of Kingsbury High, was arrested later that afternoon at a mosque in the NW10 area at about 16:15.
Authorities have told reporters that there is no known link between the mosque and the suspect’s presence there, which they believe was coincidental.
The Metropolitan Police has opened a full investigation. Officers at the scene gathered witness statements, reviewed CCTV and are carrying out searches and forensic examinations.
Detectives have interviewed dozens of people — including many children — and are pursuing between 30 and 40 lines of inquiry to establish a timeline and build a clear factual record. Police say they are not looking for any additional suspects at this time. The person in custody is being questioned on suspicion of attempted murder.
Investigation and safeguarding
Investigators are collecting physical and digital evidence from the classroom and surrounding areas, while medical teams treated those injured at the scene. Police declined to comment on motive while enquiries continue. Because the suspect is a minor and a British national, detectives and safeguarding teams are handling the inquiry with heightened sensitivity.
Counter Terrorism Policing London is supporting the investigation, but officers have been clear the incident has not been designated a terrorist event; detectives say they remain open-minded as the probe progresses.
School and community response
Headteacher Alex Thomas and school staff were praised by Brent Council for quickly moving to protect pupils. The site was secured, pastoral teams were mobilised and counselling support has been offered to students and staff. Brent Council is coordinating practical support and maintaining contact with families to provide reassurance.
There will be an increased police presence around the school in the coming days to reassure residents and help secure the area. Local safeguarding and mental health teams are working with the school to deliver targeted counselling, school-based support sessions and additional outreach for vulnerable pupils.
Calls for calm, action on youth violence
Community leaders and council officials have urged residents not to share unverified information online and warned against rumours or divisive narratives that could inflame tensions. They also used the incident to press for renewed action on knife crime and on the pressures facing young people. The council intends to strengthen prevention work with schools and youth services, focusing on early intervention, conflict resolution and better access to mental health support.
How the public can help
Police have asked anyone with information to come forward, saying even small details can assist a fast-moving inquiry. Timely tips can make a real difference to reconstructing events and protecting the community.
Next steps
Detectives will continue to interview witnesses and follow forensic leads. Further updates will be provided by the Metropolitan Police and Brent Council as new information is verified and as support measures for the school community are rolled out.
What happened
Police say the incident began around midday when a person entered a classroom, assaulted pupils and then left the premises. A 13‑year‑old, believed to be a former pupil of Kingsbury High, was arrested later that afternoon at a mosque in the NW10 area at about 16:15. Authorities have told reporters that there is no known link between the mosque and the suspect’s presence there, which they believe was coincidental.0
