Two men are in police custody after a 17-year-old boy was injured in a sword attack near two schools in Tuffley, Gloucester, on Friday morning. Gloucestershire Police have since arrested a 19-year-old and an 18-year-old, both from Gloucester.
What Happened
Police were called shortly after 8.50am on Friday to an altercation on Chalford Road, close to St Peter’s High School. Officers were told two men, one carrying a sword, had been seen chasing two boys before fleeing on foot.
A 17-year-old boy suffered a superficial wound that police believe was caused by the sword. A second 17-year-old was not physically hurt. St Peter’s High School and Willow Primary Academy were placed in lockdown while armed officers searched the area with support from a drone unit and the National Police Air Service. Pupils were later sent home.
Two Men in Custody
A 19-year-old man from Gloucester was arrested overnight on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and affray. An 18-year-old man, also from Gloucester, handed himself in to police on Saturday morning. He is held on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and affray.
Both men remain in police custody for questioning. A woman arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender was released on police bail on Friday night while enquiries continue.
Background
Parents gathered outside the school gates during the lockdown. Gloucester MP Alex McIntyre said his thoughts were with the injured teenager and his family, and said the Department for Education stood ready to offer support to St Peter’s. Police stressed that there was no ongoing risk to the public.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has dashcam or other footage, is asked to contact police. Information can be submitted online quoting reference 53260095808.
What Happens Next
Enquiries are continuing and police have not yet said whether any charges will be brought. Further updates are expected from Gloucestershire Police.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
