Police have arrested twelve teenagers following a violent knife attack at a birthday party held at Elm Park Primary School in Hornchurch, east London. The shocking incident took place last Saturday (March 22) when a group of youths, aged between 12 and 17, crashed the event.
Violent Disorder at Birthday Party
The party, held at the rented school hall, was stormed by around 50 to 70 youths carrying knives, prompting guests to flee for their lives. Disturbing footage captured the chaos as the gang entered the building, armed with weapons. Neighbors reported finding discarded knives in their gardens the following morning.
Two teenagers sustained stabbing injuries and were rushed to the hospital, although their injuries are not considered life-changing. Four police officers were also injured while attempting to control the situation.
What Led to the Attack
According to witnesses, the catalyst for the violent outbreak was a social media post shared by a young female, revealing the party location. This reportedly mobilized teenage boys from nearby areas, including Harold Hill and Hackney, to converge on the school. The gang is believed to have traveled between Elm Park, Dagenham, and Barking between 7 pm and midnight.
A local resident told the Havering Daily:
“It was total chaos. We saw between 40 to 50 youths running through the streets. We think they had knives as they were seen dropping weapons in people’s driveways and running away.”
Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the twelve arrested teenagers face charges related to possession of an offensive weapon, assault on an emergency services worker, and violent disorder.
In a statement, the Met Police said:
“There was an incident of violent disorder after a large group attended a private event at Elm Park Primary School, some armed with weapons, and assaulted and robbed members of the public. The violence seen on Saturday evening has no place in our society and it will not be tolerated.”
No formal charges have been made yet, and the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are collaborating with British Transport Police, Havering, Redbridge, and Barking & Dagenham councils, as well as the local community, to hold those responsible accountable.
Appeal for Information
Police are appealing for any witnesses or victims to come forward with information. Those who can assist are urged to contact Crimestoppers anonymously at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or call 0800 555 111, quoting PMP/8249/25.
Residents expressed their shock and concern following the incident, with many questioning how the situation escalated so rapidly. Officers are maintaining a presence in the area to reassure the community and investigate the circumstances further.
