A 17-year-old boy has been rushed taken to hospital after a violent altercation broke out involving machetes and swords on Chestnut Avenue, Forest Gate, prompting a major emergency response supported by armed officers this afternoon.
Metropolitan Police officers responded at 4.41pm on Tuesday, March 18, to reports of multiple individuals fighting with large bladed weapons near Woodford Road, E7. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as men clashed in the street, prompting terrified onlookers to flee for safety.
The injured teenager reportedly ran to a nearby youth centre to seek refuge, where he was treated for stab wounds by paramedics before being rushed to hospital. Police said his condition is currently unknown, and assessments are ongoing.
A large crime scene has been cordoned off, and specialist units — including scene of crime officers and Metropolitan Police blood-sniffer dogs — have been deployed to assist with forensic investigations.
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In a statement, a Met Police spokesperson said:
“Officers responded to reports of an altercation in Woodford Road, E7 at 16:41hrs on Tuesday, 18 March. A 17-year-old boy was treated at the scene for a stab wound. He was later taken to hospital where he remains. The extent of his injuries are yet to be confirmed. A crime scene is in place and no arrests have been made at this early stage.”
The shocking violence has caused deep concern within the Forest Gate community, as residents expressed fears over escalating youth crime and the increasing presence of dangerous weapons on local streets.
Local schools and youth centres have reportedly been advised to remain vigilant while police enquiries continue.
Anyone with information or footage of the incident is urged to contact Met Police on 101, quoting reference 4866/18MAR, or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Further updates will follow as the investigation develops.
