Two men have been taken into custody following a sword attack that left a 17-year-old boy with injuries and forced two Gloucester schools into lockdown on Friday morning.
Incident Details
Police were called to the Chalford Road area of Tuffley at 08:50 GMT after reports of a disturbance involving a bladed weapon. St Peter's High School and Willow Primary Academy were immediately placed on lockdown as a precaution. According to Gloucestershire Police, the 17-year-old victim sustained a superficial wound consistent with a sword strike. Two males, one allegedly armed with a sword, were seen chasing two boys, though only one was injured.
Arrests and Investigation
A 19-year-old man from Gloucester was arrested overnight on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and affray. An 18-year-old, also from Gloucester, was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and affray. Both remain in police custody for questioning. Additionally, a woman previously arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on police bail.
School Lockdown and Witness Accounts
Students and staff at both schools experienced hours of uncertainty. Pupil Jimmy, speaking to the BBC at the school gates, described the fear that gripped the classrooms. "At the time I was scared. My heart was racing," he said, adding that students were instructed to lock doors and turn off lights. Parents received messages from the school confirming an incident but assuring them the situation was under control.
Community Reaction
The attack has shocked the local community, coming just days before the half-term break. Police have increased patrols in the area to reassure residents. Authorities are appealing for anyone with information to come forward as they continue to piece together the circumstances leading up to the violence.
