Girl detained under Mental Health Act after school attack

A 14-year-old girl arrested after a teacher and two pupils were stabbed in a school in Manchester has been detained under the Mental Health Act.

She was arrested on suspicion of section 18 assault after police were called to reports of multiple stabbings at the Co-op Academy on Plant Hill Road in Blackley at about 08:30 BST on Tuesday.

A boy and girl, both 14, and a 27-year-old male teacher were taken to hospital and have since been released, Greater Manchester Police said.

The force said the incident was still under investigation.

Police said staff quickly detained a girl to ensure no further harm came to pupils or staff before officers arrived.

The school, which reopened today, said the site was immediately placed under lockdown procedures and staff "acted bravely" in detaining the student.

As part of its investigation, GMP said it was also "aware and are looking into social media posts" in relation to the attack but warned people it was "an ongoing live investigation" and urged them not to speculate.

Ch Insp Jon Shilvock said: "Our investigation has continued at pace since yesterday morning, when we were first made aware of the incident.

"Our thoughts are with those that were injured and were caught up in the incident.

"Whilst the physical injuries were not believed to be serious, we know the impact to those that were involved or were witnesses to this will be significant, and we want to reassure our community we are taking this very seriously.

"As our investigation progresses, we are aware that names relating to the incident are being circulated on social media, which are unhelpful for the investigation.

"This is also causing concern with the victims and those that have been impacted therefore we would stress that people do not speculate regarding this incident."

He added officers will remain in the area "to provide support to ensure staff, students and the wider community feel safe" and if anyone had concerns to speak to officers.

Co-op Academy, which reopened today, praised its staff and pupils.

"We are incredibly proud of the swift actions of our staff and the mature response of our pupils," it said.

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