Officers are appealing for information following a suspected serious assault. 

Shortly after 5.10pm today (Friday) police were alerted by the ambulance service to a report of a teenage boy and girl being injured in the Priestpopple area of Hexham.  

Emergency services attended the scene where the boy and girl – aged 15 and 16 – had suffered injuries consistent with having been caused by a bladed article.

They were both taken to hospital with serious injuries, with the girl’s injuries described as life-threatening. Their next of kin are being informed.

An investigation was immediately launched, and a 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of assault. He remains in police custody at this time.

Detective Superintendent Aelf Sampson, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is clearly a serious incident and a full investigation is under way.

“While our investigation is at an early stage, we do believe all those involved are known to each other.

“We are determined to find out what has happened and bring anyone involved to justice.

“There is a high police presence in the area and a cordon in place which will remain this way into the weekend.

“We would like to thank the public for their cooperation while officers carry out enquiries.

“If you did see something or have information in relation to what has happened, please report it to police as soon as possible.”

People are asked to avoid speculation and anyone who has concerns are encouraged to speak to an officer.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20230127-0795.