12-year-old arrested for knife attack on six schoolchildren near Lisbon

A 12-year-old boy was arrested after stabbing six classmates at a school in Azambuja, a town near Lisbon, on Tuesday. The victims, aged between 11 and 14, were injured in the attack, according to Portuguese National Police.

Silvino Lúcio, mayor of Azambuja, said a boy suffered a serious chest injury and was taken to a hospital in Lisbon.

Lúcio added that his injury was initially serious but not life-threatening. Five other victims, all girls, suffered minor injuries to their arms.

Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the attack, which has sent shockwaves through the normally quiet community.

Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro condemned the incident, calling it an “isolated case” and wishing the children all the best for their recovery.

“It was an isolated act and a strange event in Portuguese society, but one that should make everyone who works in public spaces reflect responsibly,” Montenegro wrote.