Girl, 14, charged with attempted murder after Manchester school knife attack

A 14-year-old girl has been charged with three counts of attempted murder after a knife attack at the Co-op Academy in Manchester. The incident, which occurred Tuesday morning, also resulted in charges for possessing a bladed article on school premises. Two pupils and a teacher were injured but have since been released from the hospital with no serious injuries.

Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation, though Greater Manchester Police have stated it is not currently classified as a terrorist incident. Det Ch Supt Jonathan Chadwick of Counter Terrorism Policing North West acknowledged the seriousness of the charges and pledged continued support for the victims, their families, and the school community, which has been deeply affected.

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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.

The suspect was initially detained under the Mental Health Act before being transferred to police custody. The school implemented lockdown procedures immediately after the attack. A spokesperson for Co-op Academy praised the swift actions of staff and the mature response of the pupils during the incident.

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We are incredibly proud of the swift actions of our staff and the mature response of our pupils.