Birley Academy: Boy, 17, stabs child and 2 adults in horror attack as school goes into lockdown

01 May 2024 , 11:14

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Birley Academy: Boy, 17, stabs child and 2 adults in horror attack as school goes into lockdown

A schoolboy has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a child and two adults were taken to hospital after an attack at Birley Academy in Sheffield

A boy has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a child and two adults were attacked at Birley Academy - previously known as the community college - in Sheffield.

Police rushed to the secondary school after receiving reports of an incident involving a sharp object at 8.50am today. Two adults have been taken to hospital with minor injuries, while a child is also being checked over in hospital after being assaulted. A 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is in police custody.

The school was placed on lockdown, with children seen beginning to leave the site around 11am. Officers are expected to remain on site and in the surrounding area throughout the day. A statement from South Yorkshire Police said: "Officers are at the scene after responding to reports of an incident involving a sharp object at the school on Birley Lane at around 8.50am. Two adults have been taken to hospital with minor injuries to be checked over. A child is also being checked over in hospital after being assaulted.

A 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody. Police will remain at the scene throughout the day to provide assurances to those in the school and the local community."

The school said in an update at 10am that all students and staff are "safe". They wrote on social media: "This morning we went into lockdown as a precaution following an incident at the school. This was not a decision taken lightly but the safety of students and staff is paramount. All students and staff are safe. We are working closely with the police and will update shortly." An email sent from new headteacher Vicky Hall asked parents not to turn up at the school and reassured them that everyone is "safe and well".

Elizabeth Baker