UK COUNTER Terrorism Police have confirmed the stabbing incident in Reading last night that left three dead and three injured has been "declared a terrorist incident".
The attack took place in Forbury Gardens some time around 7pm on Saturday evening.
A 25-year-old man from Reading was arrested at the scene of the incident and remains in custody on suspicion of murder.
In a statement, Thames Valley Police said: "Counter Terrorism Policing can now confirm that the stabbing incident that happened in Reading last night has now been declared a terrorist incident.
"Officers from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) have been working closely with Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Department throughout the night.
"Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon, Senior National Coordinator for the Counter Terrorism Policing network, has this morning declared the incident a terrorist incident, and CTPSE will be taking over the investigation."
Police officers are seen at a police cordon in central Reading, west of London, on June 20, 2020 following a stabbing incident at Forbury Gardens park. - British police said Saturday they were investigating a "serious incident" in the southern English city of Reading, with reports suggesting multiple stabbings. British media said the stabbings occurred in a central park, requiring two air ambulances to be called in. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP) (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)Chief Constable John Campbell of Thames Valley Police said he was "deeply saddened by the events of last night".
He said: "This was a truly tragic incident and the thoughts of Thames Valley Police are with all those who have been affected. Incidents of this nature are very rare, though I know that will be of little comfort to those involved and understand the concern that this incident will have caused amongst our local community.
"We will be working closely with our partners over the coming days and weeks to support the Reading community during this time, as well as with CTPSE (Counter Terrorism Policing South East) as they progress their investigation.
"Police cordons continue to be in place and are likely to be for some time as CTPSE work further to investigate this incident and establish exactly what happened. ‘I would urge the public to avoid the area at this time and thank the community for their patience. We will let you know as soon as the area is back open."
Thames Valley Police say there is no indication the attacks are linked to a Black Lives Matter demonstration held in Reading earlier that day.
My thoughts are with all of those affected by the appalling incident in Reading and my thanks to the emergency services on the scene.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) June 20, 2020
Reacting to the incident, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson last night tweeted: “My thoughts are with all of those affected by the appalling incident in Reading and my thanks to the emergency services on the scene.”
Home Secretary Priti Patel also said in a statement: “This evening we saw a senseless attack on people simply enjoying a Saturday evening with family and friends.
“My heart, prayers and thoughts are with all of those affected and to the people of Reading who will be deeply shocked and concerned by this terrible incident.
“I am in contact with the police and will ensure they have all the support they need. I would like to thank Thames Valley Police and the emergency services for their response.”
