Three men arrested after 32-year-old woman stabbed at Notting Hill Carnival

28 August, 2024

Notting Hill Carnival

Three men have been arrested following the stabbing of a 32-year-old woman at Notting Hill Carnival last weekend.

The woman, who was reportedly with her child at the time of the incident, was attacked on the opening day of the festival (August 25) at around 6pm BST. She was thought to have been caught up in an altercation between two groups of men when the incident happened.

As per the BBC, a man aged 20 was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and violent disorder. Two other men aged 22 and 24, were also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder.

A statement from the Metropolitan Police said that the woman was still in a “life-threatening condition”.

Commander Charmain Brenyah, the Met’s spokesperson for Notting Hill Carnival, said: “Our thoughts, first and foremost, are with the woman who is fighting for her life in hospital and with her loved ones. She came to Carnival to have fun, with her young child, and was caught up in the most awful violence.

“These arrests are a significant step in the investigation. They are the result of a determined effort by detectives who have worked around the clock to identify, locate and arrest these suspects.

“We should not underestimate how much more difficult those vital early stages of an investigation are when they take place in the context of a busy, crowded event like Carnival.”

She continued: “I’d also like to acknowledge the incredible work of the officers, including police medics, who arrived so quickly – delivering emergency medical treatment and securing the scene to preserve vital evidence.

“Our investigations into the other incidents over the weekend continue.”

The Met have asked anyone with information about the incident to call police on 101, to message @MetCC on X/Twitter or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Founded nearly 60 years ago, the Notting Hill Carnival sees thousands flock to join in the vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture. Today, the event not only showcases West Indian traditions but also honours African and Brazilian influence.

This week, the Carnival’s CEO, Matthew Philips, told NME about the future of the festival and encouraged more people to get involved.

“We don’t market Carnival because it doesn’t need it, but there is work to be done in terms of how people can get involved. I do appreciate a lot of people don’t realise that you can actually participate,” he said.

“All of the bands have welcomed people helping to make and construct the costumes. There are steel bands up and down the country that offer free classes for the most part to learn how to play the steel band. All of the sound systems operate throughout the year and they do various events. I know that most of them, if not all, are open to young people getting involved and learning the skills.”

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