Armed police have been seen swarming Reading college after a student was left wounded following an attack as officers arrested a person in connection.
A boy suffered injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening at the college on Kings Road on Thursday afternoon.
Images swirling on social media show a large police presence at the campus and reports have stated that helicopters are flying above the area as armed police line the streets.
Following the incident, a Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: ‘We are aware of an assault with injury in Kings Road, Reading.
‘A boy has sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment.
‘Search activity is ongoing, supported by armed officers, and a visible police presence remains.
‘We advise members of the public to avoid the area at this time while officers work swiftly to resolve the situation.
‘We will provide an update when we are in a position to do so.’
A boy suffered injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening at the college on Kings Road on Thursday afternoon
The spokesperson added later on Thursday afternoon: ‘We can confirm officers have made an arrest in connection with this incident.
‘The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is being treated in hospital.
‘Officers are still in the area, so if you’re worried or have any questions, please feel free to speak to them.
‘Contrary to media reports, this incident has not been categorised as a major incident by the force.’
An automated message on the college’s phone line said on Thursday afternoon: ‘We have dealt with an incident at Reading College where one student has sustained injuries not believed to be life-threatening.
‘Their family have been informed. The police have been notified and are present.
‘Please be reassured that all actions have been taken to ensure students’ safety.’
Several people have described the scenes on social media, with one X account posting: ‘Reading College apparently in lockdown. Reports of a stabbing in or nearby. This is never-ending!’
Daily Mail has approached South Central Ambulance Service for comment.
Several people have described the scenes on social media, with one X user posting: ‘Reading College apparently in lockdown. Reports of a stabbing in or nearby. This is never-ending!’
One witness told the Reading Chronicle: ‘There was a problem with a student and all the students were lying on the floor The campus was in lockdown and all of the kids were in lockdown.’
A student told the Mirror that pupils were ordered to lay under their desks. They said: ‘At lunch someone set up a fire cracker, and now someone got stabbed. We were told to go for lockdown laying under desks after hearing lockdown alarm, we still in lockdown, not allowed to leave’.
A message reportedly displayed on a computer in classrooms demanded pupils to enter lockdown conditions. It read: ‘Please enter lockdown. This is not a drill. Please secure your rooms and keep students in.’
