Girl charged with attempted murder over school stabbing that left three injured - as counter-terror police lead probe

A schoolgirl has been charged over a school stabbing in Manchester that left two 14-year-olds and a 27-year-old man with knife wounds.

Officers were called to reports of an attack at Co-op Academy, in Blackley, on Tuesday.

The two 14-year-olds - a boy and a girl - plus the 27-year-old man were taken to hospital but were soon released as their injuries were not serious.

A 14-year-old girl was arrested at the scene on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent and later sectioned for assessment in hospital as the investigation continues.

On Thursday, Counter Terrorism Policing North West said it was leading the investigation, but added it has not been declared a terrorist incident.

Greater Manchester Police later confirmed the schoolgirl has now been charged with three counts of attempted murder and two of having a bladed weapon on school premises.

She is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Friday.

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Detective Chief Superintendent Jonathan Chadwick, head of Counter Terrorism Policing North West, said: "These are extremely serious charges against a young girl and, working closely with Greater Manchester Police, we continue to support the victims and their families and offer support to the wider school community, who have been deeply affected by what happened.

"Although charges have now been secured, our investigation is still ongoing, and we continue to work with local policing colleagues in the area."

Earlier, a spokesman for the force added: "As a result of further inquiries, Counter Terrorism Policing North West have now taken primacy for the investigation with the support of Greater Manchester Police.

"Searches relating to the investigation remain ongoing and counter-terrorism detectives are keeping an open mind to the motivation of the attack.

"A 14-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of section 18 assault and detained under the Mental Health Act. Following an assessment by health professionals, she was released to police custody. At this time, it has not been declared as a terrorist incident."

Chief Superintendent David Meeney, of GMP, said the suspect is still in custody and is being checked by health workers.

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