One person was killed and five others were injured in a knife attack in central London’s Russell Square, London Metropolitan Police said.
A suspect has been detained, authorities said.
Police were called in at 10:33 p.m. Wednesday after reports of a man “seen in possession of a knife injuring people,” authorities said in a news release.
The man was arrested less than 10 minutes later, authorities said.
Police did not give a motive but said “terrorism is one possibility being explored at this stage.”
Based on early evidence, investigators believe the incident was a terror attack, according to officials briefed on the investigation.
The officials also said one injured victim appears to be American.
The incident comes just hours after authorities announced London would increase its presence of armed police after recent terror attacks in Europe.
The motive in the stabbing spree is unclear, but police said that “terrorism is one possibility being explored at this stage.”
See the full police statement below:
Police were called at 22:33 hours on Wednesday, 3 August to reports of a man seen in possession of a knife injuring people at Russell Square, WC1.
Officers attended the scene along with the London Ambulance Service.
Up to six people were found injured at the location.
A female (no further details) was treated at the scene but was pronounced dead a short time later.
We await an update on the condition of the other persons injured and details of any other injuries.
A man was arrested at 22:39 hours and a Taser was discharged by one of the arresting officers.
Additional police units have been deployed to the area to provide reassurance.
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Terrorism is one possibility being explored at this stage.