A 17-year-old boy has been stabbed to death at a bus station in Bedford.
Detectives have launched an urgent manhunt after several attackers – clad all in black – ran from the scene in Greenhill Street shortly before 6pm yesterday.
The victim has been named as Bedford Academy student Thomas Taylor.
Headteacher Chris Deller said in a statement: ‘We are deeply upset and shocked to hear the sad news that a Bedford Academy student has lost their life.
‘Thomas was a popular, well-liked and respected lad who finished Year-11 with a strong set of results, before going on to study at sixth form.
‘Our focus now is on supporting the family through such a difficult period, whilst helping our students and wider community to come to terms with such a tragic loss.’
A spokesman for Bedfordshire Police said: ‘Thomas Taylor was walking along Greenhill Street close to Bedford bus station when he was attacked by a group of males at 5.50pm yesterday (Wed).
‘He suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital but was pronounced dead a short time later.
‘The offenders fled towards Hassett Street and Greyfriars car park. They are all described as black and were wearing dark clothing.’
Detective Chief Inspector Katie Dounias, who is leading the investigation, said: ‘This is an absolutely shocking incident in which a teenage boy has been stabbed to death in a busy town centre.
‘We have a dedicated team of detectives working on this investigation and supporting Thomas’s family at this incredibly difficult time for them.’
She urged anyone with information to contact the force.
‘We’re aware that there are images and videos circulating on social media, please refrain from sharing any such clips and instead contact police,’ the detective added.
Superintendent Hob Hoque said: ‘We appreciate this incident will be concerning for Bedford residents and we will have a visible presence in the town with additional patrols through the coming days.
‘Knife crime has no place in our communities and we would like to reassure the public that we are working hard to establish the circumstances surrounding this appalling violence and locating those responsible.’
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