Two students and staff member injured in attack at Devon private school

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Two students have sustained serious injuries in an attack at an independent school in Devon.

A third person, believed to be a staff member, was also injured in the incident at Blundell’s school in Tiverton in the early hours of Friday, and a 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

The police said all of those involved were linked to the school and there was no wider risk to the community. All three who were injured needed hospital treatment.

Police were called at 1am to a building on the site of Blundell’s.

The Devon and Cornwall force said: “It was reported that three people, including two students, had been assaulted and had sustained multiple serious injuries. They have been taken to hospital for treatment.

“A 16-year-old boy from Tiverton has been arrested on suspicion of three counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He remains in police custody at this time.”

Supt Antony Hart, the local policing commander, said: “This is a very traumatic incident for those involved and the wider school community and we will continue to work closely with the school, providing support to those involved.

“At this time it is understood that all parties involved are linked to the school. I am keen to reassure the community that there is no wider risk, and we are not seeking anyone else in relation to this matter.

“Throughout the day we will continue with searches and inquiries in the vicinity of the school while we are in the early stage of our investigation.”

A letter sent to parents and guardians said two boys had been “seriously injured” and were in hospital. It said it was believed to be an “isolated incident” and there was no ongoing threat or concern.

Bart Wielenga, the head of the school, said in the letter there would be a police presence around Petergate, one of the school’s boarding houses, for “some time”. He said the school was working closely with police, that he would be addressing pupils and that support would be available. He urged parents not to engage in speculation or to post on social media.

On its website, the co-educational school says it has a “safe, secure campus, set on the edge of the market town of Tiverton, surrounded by gentle hills and green space”.