Man, 32, Charged After Shocking Stabbing of 11-Year-Old Girl in Leicester Square
A 32-year-old man is facing attempted murder charges after an 11-year-old girl was stabbed in broad daylight in London’s bustling Leicester Square on August 12.
Chaos in the West End: Girl Seriously Injured
The attack happened around 11:34 a.m. in the busy pedestrian zone of the West End. Police rushed to the scene after reports of a stabbing. The young victim was found with serious stab wounds and was quickly taken to hospital. Thankfully, her injuries are not life-threatening.
Initially, it was feared the girl’s 34-year-old mother was also hurt, but officers later confirmed the blood on the woman was from her daughter’s injuries.
Suspect Caught and Charged
Ioan Pintaru, 32, with no fixed address, has been charged with attempted murder and carrying a bladed weapon. He was arrested at the scene and is held in custody, due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court the same morning.
Police confirm Pintaru was unknown to the victims and are not treating the attack as terrorism-related.
Police Praise Brave Bystanders
“This is a horrific incident and our thoughts are with the victims and their family,” said Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah, head of Westminster policing.
“I would like to pay tribute to the members of the public and local business staff who bravely intervened. They risked their own safety and showed the best of London.”
The investigation into the motive behind the stabbing is ongoing. Police urge anyone with information to come forward to help bring justice.
