**Manhunt Underway After Disturbing Sword Attack on Teens in Gloucestershire**
A manhunt is currently in progress following an alarming incident in Tuffley, Gloucestershire, where two teenagers were reportedly chased through the streets with a sword, leaving one of them injured. The incident occurred near St Peter’s High School on Chalford Road on Friday morning, just after 8:50 AM.
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According to police reports, the 17-year-old boy sustained what has been described as a “superficial wound” during the pursuit. Witnesses claim that the adolescents were targeted while walking in the area, prompting immediate police intervention. Armed response units were dispatched promptly to the scene in an effort to apprehend the suspects, who are believed to have fled the area on foot.
In a subsequent operation, officers intercepted a vehicle shortly after the attack, leading to the arrest of a woman on suspicion of assisting an offender. Detective Inspector Sophie Dawkins from Gloucestershire Police addressed community concerns, stating, “We completely understand the distress this incident may have caused, especially given its timing near a school during drop-off hours.”
Dawkins confirmed that both armed officers and the National Police Air Service were deployed to enhance safety in the vicinity, while local neighbourhood teams engaged with parents to provide reassurance. “Our officers are actively investigating, and we urge anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage to come forward,” she added.
Witness descriptions have identified one male suspect as a white individual in his late teens to early twenties, approximately 6 feet tall with a medium build, wearing white sliders at the time of the incident. The second suspect is also identified as white, standing around 5 feet 5 inches tall, of slim build, and dressed in black clothing.
Crucially, police clarified that the injured teen was not transported to a hospital, countering earlier reports that suggested otherwise. The woman arrested remains in custody for questioning as the investigation continues.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about the harrowing event to contact Gloucestershire Police, referencing incident number 53260095808.
This distressing incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community awareness and vigilance. With the safety of young individuals at stake, authorities urge parents and guardians to remain alert, particularly as they escort children to school. The continued collaboration between the police and the community is vital in ensuring such alarming incidents are prevented in the future.
As residents of Tuffley await further developments, it is crucial that anyone who can assist in the investigation comes forward, aiding in the speedy resolution and ensuring community safety is upheld.