A14-year-old Nigerian boy identified as Daniel Anjorin, was tragically killed in Tuesday’s attack in Hainault, a large suburban area in northeast London, England.
The teenager reportedly died on Tuesday morning as he walked to school in Hainault, in the east of Britain’s capital, when he was attacked by a man wielding what appeared to be a Samurai-type sword
The assailant’s violent spree began with a car crashing into a house, followed by reports of multiple stabbings, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
Amid the chaos, two police officers and two others were also injured before the suspect, who was seen leaping over garden fences, was eventually cornered in a front garden and subdued with a Taser.
The 36-year-old suspect was arrested and taken to the hospital for injuries sustained during the car crash.
Authorities have indicated that the suspect’s condition has prevented them from conducting a formal interview at this time.
Assistant Commissioner Louisa Rolfe stated that there was no prior contact between the suspect and the police, indicating that the attack was likely not premeditated or targeted.
While the investigation is ongoing, police have ruled out terrorism as a motive. Ch Supt Stuart Bell assured the public that there was no further threat to safety and no other suspects were being sought.
The community of Hainault is reeling from the tragedy, with witnesses recounting harrowing scenes of the attack.
One witness described seeing the suspect asking a neighbor to take his phone and inform someone of his location before brandishing the sword. Another witness described the suspect running through gardens and streets before being apprehended by police.
In the aftermath of the incident, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan expressed condolences to the victim’s family, while also commending the swift response of the emergency services.
Also, police presence has been deployed in the area, and authorities are appealing for any witnesses or individuals with footage of the incident to come forward.
The tragic death of the 14-year-old boy has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the importance of addressing violence and ensuring the safety of all residents.