A teenager in north London was the victim of a shocking and violent attack over the weekend, being stabbed 14 times in a disturbing incident that has left the community reeling.
The attack occurred at the Harrow Leisure Centre on Saturday evening, where an 18-year-old was subjected to slurs, repeatedly stabbed, and then taken to the hospital. According to police, they have since been discharged.
Four people have been arrested in connection with the attack, with one person, 19-year-old Summer Betts-Ramsey, facing charges of attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon in public. Betts-Ramsey has denied any involvement in the stabbing, as reported by The Standard.
The CEO of the LGBTQ+ charity, Just Like Us, Laura Mackay, expressed horror at the incident and emphasized that no one should have to fear for their safety because of their identity within the LGBT+ community.
This attack comes on the heels of a disturbingly similar incident, as a vigil was held to remember Brianna Ghey, a trans teen who was fatally stabbed just one year ago. With sentencing for Ghey’s killers occurring earlier this month, the community is once again facing the impact of transphobia.
Betts-Ramsey did not enter any pleas after being read the charges and has been remanded in custody, with a hearing set for March. Detective Inspector Nicola Hannant has urged any witnesses to come forward to assist with the investigation.
The entire community has been left shaken by this attack, and it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing impact of transphobia. As the investigation continues, the hope is that justice will be served for the victim and their loved ones.