Hunt for attackers after Halloween party stabbings in England

Police in the Eastleigh area of England are searching for an unknown group of people after stabbings at a Halloween party. Five boys were taken to hospital as a result. Publicly available details about how the attack unfolded are limited, but the investigation continues.

Police appeal

Senior investigating officer Det Ch Insp Elizabeth Pirie said officers want to identify anyone who was at the party. That includes people who directly witnessed what happened, those who filmed footage that may be relevant, and anyone able to help identify the unknown group.

Work at the scene

Cordons have been placed along Park Road and Valley Road. Officers are speaking to witnesses and checking homes for video footage. They have also spoken to residents of neighbouring houses and of a number of other nearby streets.

Community response

Eastleigh MP Liz Jarvis said the community was in shock. She expressed sympathy for the boys, their parents and the wider community, and urged people to stay calm, avoid sharing misinformation online and let police do their job.

Two churches are opening their doors. St Boniface Church in Hursley Road will be open from 09:00 to 17:00 throughout the week. St Martin in the Wood in Queen's Road will be available on Mondays and Wednesdays between 15:00 and 17:00.