Emergency services rushed to Old Kent Road in South London late Tuesday night after receiving reports of a violent incident involving multiple stabbings. The call came in at approximately 10:45 p.m., prompting a large-scale response from both the Metropolitan Police and the London Ambulance Service.

According to initial reports, several people were injured in the attack, with one victim, a 17-year-old male, suffering life-threatening injuries. He was treated at the scene by paramedics before being rushed to a nearby trauma center. Officials have confirmed that he remains in critical condition as of Wednesday morning.

A spokesperson for the London Ambulance Service said: “We were called at 10:45 p.m. to reports of a stabbing on Old Kent Road. We dispatched multiple resources, including advanced paramedics and trauma teams. Several patients were treated at the scene, with one teenager taken as a priority to hospital in a life-threatening condition.”

Police officers arrived shortly after the call and established a crime scene, closing a large section of Old Kent Road as forensic teams began gathering evidence. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with emergency vehicles lining the busy road, which is known for heavy late-night traffic and activity.

Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Specialist Crime Command have launched an investigation. At this time, it is unclear how many suspects may have been involved or what sparked the violent altercation. No arrests have been announced, but officers are carrying out door-to-door inquiries, reviewing CCTV footage, and speaking with potential witnesses.

Residents in the area have expressed shock at the attack. One shop owner told reporters: “We see arguments sometimes, but nothing like this. There were so many police and ambulances—I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s frightening, especially for young people who walk here every day.”

Old Kent Road, one of South London’s busiest thoroughfares, has been the scene of several violent incidents in recent years, and community leaders have been calling for more resources to address youth violence and knife crime. Tuesday’s attack will likely reignite those concerns and spark further debate about public safety measures.

The Metropolitan Police released a statement urging anyone with information to come forward: “We are appealing to the public for assistance. If you saw or heard anything in the Old Kent Road area around 10:45 p.m., or if you have dashcam or CCTV footage, please contact us immediately. Every piece of information could be vital to this investigation.”

Police remain at the scene as the investigation continues, and traffic diversions are in place around Old Kent Road. Authorities have reassured the public that there is no wider threat, but officers will maintain a visible presence in the area to provide reassurance to residents and commuters.

The stabbing comes amid rising concerns over youth violence across London. The community now waits anxiously for updates on the young victim’s condition, while investigators work urgently to bring those responsible to justice.