Woman Arrested After Four Stabbed in Central London
Ninoda.com – A 47-year-old woman has been arrested following a stabbing incident in Covent Garden that left four men injured, according to the Metropolitan Police. Emergency services were called to Endell Street at approximately 12:30 BST after reports of multiple stabbings. The victims, aged 34, 39, 42, and 52, were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Police confirmed that two men remain hospitalized with injuries not considered life-threatening or life-changing, while the other two have been discharged.
Emergency Response and Scene Management
The London Air Ambulance was among the emergency vehicles that responded to the scene, landing in nearby Trafalgar Square. However, all four victims were subsequently transported to hospital by road. A police cordon initially stretched from High Holborn and covered the St Mungo’s homeless centre on Endell Street. This cordon was removed after 15:00 as investigators gathered evidence from the area.
"Officers responded within minutes of this incident after receiving a number of reports. While still at an early stage of the investigation, we would like to reassure the community that we currently believe this to be an isolated, mental-health related incident."
Ch Supt Jason Stewart provided further details about the arrest, confirming the woman was taken into custody on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and assault. He emphasized that a visible police presence would remain in the area while the investigation continues. A spokesperson for St Mungo’s stated they could not yet confirm whether anyone connected to their organization was involved in the incident.
Witness Accounts and Local Impact
Local residents and business owners provided vivid accounts of the chaotic scene. Arjan Gjorga, who manages a fish and chip shop on Endell Street, told reporters that a woman had "started stabbing random people" before police arrived. The 48-year-old added: "We saw this lady after a few minutes being arrested – the police responded immediately."
Another anonymous witness described seeing the woman stab three people with scissors outside the Shaftesbury Theatre before she moved down Endell Street. A barber shop employee nearby recounted helping one of the victims make a phone call to police after being stabbed. "One of the victims ran into the shop to call the police. He was traumatised, he was panicked but the police turned up very quickly," the worker explained.
Investigation and Community Reassurance
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the woman arrested after four stabbed in central London is being held for questioning. Investigators are treating the incident as potentially mental health-related, though they have not ruled out other possibilities. Community members have been advised to remain vigilant as officers continue their work in the area.
For those wishing to share information or story ideas related to this incident, BBC London welcomes submissions at hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk. Updates on the investigation can be followed through BBC Radio London and their social media channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly did the stabbing incident occur?
The incident took place on Endell Street in Covent Garden, central London, near the Shaftesbury Theatre and St Mungo’s homeless centre.
How many people were injured and what are their conditions?
Four men were stabbed. Two remain in hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while two have been discharged following treatment.
What is the suspect’s age and what charges has she faced?
The woman arrested after four stabbed is 47 years old. She has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon and assault.
Is the incident considered isolated or part of a larger pattern?
Police believe this is an isolated, mental-health-related incident, though investigations are ongoing.
