Man fatally stabbed at Brent Civic Centre

A man's died after being stabbed at Brent Civic Centre in north west London

The ambulance service say they were called to the site in Wembley, which also houses Brent Council and a library just before half 2 this afternoon

A London Ambulance Service spokesman said: “We were called at 2.25pm today to reports of a stabbing at Brent Civic Centre, Wembley, HA9.

“We sent an ambulance crew, paramedics in fast response cars and an incident response officer. We also dispatched London’s Air Ambulance.

“Sadly, despite the best efforts of our crews, a patient was pronounced dead at the scene”.

A statement later appeared on the council website telling users of the building to stay away, saying: “The Brent Civic Centre and Wembley Library are currently closed due to an ongoing incident.

“Please avoid visiting the building at this time. We’ll share updates as soon as we can.”

Police say they have started a murder investigation and have also been given greater powers to search people and vehicles in the area

Superintendent Chris Clarke, lead for emergency response policing in the area, said: “This is an awful incident, in which someone has tragically lost their life. We are working to urgently identify the victim and inform his next-of-kin as soon as possible.

“An investigation is underway to establish exactly what has taken place and trace those responsible. We recognise the concern this incident will cause within the local community and are committed to keeping residents informed as our enquiries progress.

“In light of the incident, we have authorised additional stop and search powers to help prevent further violence, support our investigation, and keep people safe.

“There will be an increased police presence in and around the area in the coming hours while our officers continue their investigation.”

There is not believed to be a wider threat to the community, nor is this incident believed to be terror-related.

The section 60 applies to the Wembley Park, Barnhill, Tokyngton, Stonebridge, Roundwood, Dollis Hill, Willesden and Welsh Harp ward areas of Brent.

Some staff, residents and visitors saw the fatal attack take place, according to Brent Council leader Muhammed Butt, who said the area had been left “shaken” by the incident.

Mr Butt urged people to stay away, saying: “Today, Brent has been shaken by an appalling and deeply tragic incident at the civic centre, in which a person has lost their life.

“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the victim, their family and loved ones, as well as the staff, residents and visitors who witnessed what happened.

“The civic centre has been evacuated and will remain closed until further notice.

“I would urge people to avoid the area and allow the police and emergency services to carry out their work.

“There is an active police investigation under way – please do not speculate or repeat any unverified claims online.”

There had been a “swift response” from the emergency services to the incident and council officials are now “working closely” with the Metropolitan Police, he added.

Mr Butt said council staff had also shown “professionalism, compassion and calm” in dealing with the “most difficult of circumstances”.

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