UPDATE: Thames Valley Police state that the incident was a “terrorist incident.”
🚨| UPDATE- Murder investigation Reading@TerrorismPolice can now confirm that the stabbing incident that happened in Reading last night has now been declared a terrorist incident.
We continue to work together with Counter Terrorism Policing SE.
➡ https://t.co/CMkzwE6crv pic.twitter.com/MQeQr8XLe5
— Thames Valley Police (@ThamesVP) June 21, 2020
“Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon, Senior National Coordinator for the Counter Terrorism Policing network, has this morning declared the incident a terrorist incident, and CTPSE will be taking over the investigation,” Thames Valley Police said in a statement. “A 25-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder last night, remains in police custody at this time.”
Chief Constable John Campbell of Thames Valley Police said: “I am deeply saddened by the events of last night. This was a truly tragic incident and the thoughts of Thames Valley Police are with all those who have been affected. Incidents of this nature are very rare, though I know that will be of little comfort to those involved and understand the concern that this incident will have caused amongst our local community. We will be working closely with our partners over the coming days and weeks to support the Reading community during this time, as well as with CTPSE as they progress their investigation.”
ORIGINAL:
Law enforcement officials and paramedics responded to a “serious incident” late on Saturday afternoon in the British town of Reading where there were reportedly multiple victims that sustained serious injures.
The Thames Valley Police said that they were investigating the incident and that they have already arrested a man who was on scene.
The Telegraph reported that a source indicated that three people have died from the incident and two were transferred to a near by emergency room.
“Security sources have told the BBC a man arrested at the scene is thought to be Libyan,” the BBC reported. “Counter terrorism officers are at the scene, but the motive for the attack has not yet been confirmed.”
“A number of people sustained injuries and were taken to hospital,” the Thames Valley Police added. “A police cordon is in place in Forbury Gardens as officers investigate. We are asking the public to avoid the area at this time.”
A number of people sustained injuries and were taken to hospital.
A police cordon is in place in Forbury Gardens as officers investigate.
We are asking the public to avoid the area at this time.
— Thames Valley Police (@ThamesVP) June 20, 2020
“Deeply concerned to hear reports of an incident in Reading,” UK Home Secretary Priti Patel said. “My thoughts are with everyone involved, including police and emergency responders at the scene.”
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted: “My thoughts are with all of those affected by the appalling incident in Reading and my thanks to the emergency services on the scene.”
This is a breaking news story, refresh the page for update.
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