Teen, 14, stabbed to death on London bus in 'horrendous' attack

A shocking incident occurred in London where a teenager was stabbed to death on a bus. Police have described it as a "horrific" crime and are currently conducting a full investigation.

The teenager was attacked on a bus in Woolwich, southeast London, shortly before 2:30 pm local time on Tuesday. London police are appealing to the public for information to assist in their investigation of the daylight attack. Despite efforts by the London Ambulance Service and London Air Ambulance to save the 14-year-old, he tragically died. The victim was attacked on the 472 bus on Woolwich Church Street near the junction with the A205 South Circular Road.

Superintendent Louise Sargent, Deputy Commander for the South East BCU, stated that a local patrol officer raised the alarm. "Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time," Sargent said. "This is a horrific crime and I cannot imagine what they are going through. There have been no arrests at this stage, but we are working at pace to identify and apprehend those involved."

Police have increased patrols in the area, and Sargent stated that this will be "a worrying time… particularly given the young age of the victim." London Mayor Sadiq Khan described the stabbing as "appalling." Local councilor Matthew Pennycook said he was "devastated" by the incident.

Knife crime is a significant issue in London. According to the Office for National Statistics, there were 225 homicides involving a knife in the 12 months ending in June 2024. In the 12 months ending in March 2023, 75 young people under the age of 25 were killed with a knife or sharp instrument, including 10 victims under the age of 16.