Schoolgirl charged with three attempted murders after Manchester school knife attack

The incident

On Tuesday morning, a 14-year-old girl allegedly attacked two 14-year-old pupils, a boy and a girl, and a 27-year-old male staff member with a knife at the Co-op Academy in Blackley, Manchester. The victims were taken to hospital but later discharged, with police confirming they suffered no serious injuries. The school was immediately placed into lockdown, and staff were able to detain the suspect until officers arrived.

Charges and court appearance

On Thursday evening, the girl was charged with three counts of attempted murder and two counts of possessing a bladed article on school premises. She had been arrested at the scene on suspicion of assault and subsequently detained under the Mental Health Act for assessment before being returned to police custody. She remains in custody in Manchester and is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London on Friday.

These are extremely serious charges against a young girl and, working closely with Greater Manchester Police, we continue to support the victims and their families and offer support to the wider school community, who have been deeply affected by what happened.

Investigation

Greater Manchester Police said on Thursday that Counter Terrorism Policing North West had taken the lead in the investigation after further information came to light. The incident has not been declared a terrorist event at this stage, but the specialist unit is coordinating inquiries. Detective Chief Superintendent Chadwick stressed that the investigation remains ongoing and that officers continue to work with local colleagues in Blackley.

Since our last update, further information has come to light that we have made Counter Terrorism Policing North West aware of. There is no information to indicate any further threat, and our local officers continue to be in the area.

Community reassurance

Officers have maintained high-visibility patrols around the school since Tuesday, with Chief Superintendent Meeney emphasising that there is no information to suggest any wider risk. Police are appealing for anyone with information or concerns to speak to local officers. Meanwhile, the school community has been offered support by the authorities.