A MURDER investigation has been launched as police confirm three people were killed in an attack at Reading's Forbury Gardens.
Police were scrambled to the town centre to reports that multiple people had been stabbed.
This was about 7pm last night (June 20).
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The force has confirmed 'a number of people' were injured in the attack and were taken to hospital.
Tragically, three of these people have died and a further three of those taken to hospital have serious injuries.
Thames Valley Police also confirmed a 25-year-old man, from Reading, has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He is currently in police custody.
The force said it is not looking for any other people in connection with the attack, at this stage.
Police added that it is not being treated as terrorism but officers are 'keeping an open mind' as to the motivation.
Detective Chief Superintendent Ian Hunter, Head of Crime, said: “The Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit has launched a murder investigation following this incident.
“We have made one arrest and at this stage we are not looking for any other people in connection with this incident.
"There is no intelligence to suggest that there is any further danger to the public, however we urge people to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious by calling police."
The statement continued to reject reports that the incident was linked the Black Lives Matter Protest in Reading earlier this afternoon. It confirmed it was not connected and took place three hours after the event.
The head of crime continued: "This is not currently being treated as a terrorism incident, however officers are keeping an open mind as to the motivation for the incident and are being supported by colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing South East."
Adding: "We are also aware that the incident was captured on mobile phones and would like to hear from anyone who has video footage. Out of respect for those deceased and injured, along with their loved ones, please do not circulate this footage on social media – this will be incredibly distressing."
The attack happened in Forbury Gardens but multiple police cordons are in place across the town centre
The public was warned that cordons are likely to be in place for some time to allow for investigation work as officers 'establish the circumstances' of what happened.
There will be an increase police presence in the town centre and the public is urged to avoid the area.
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The police statement added: "The thoughts of everyone at Thames Valley Police are with those who have been affected by this tragic incident and I understand the concern that this will have caused amongst the community.
"Please be assured that safety of the public is our primary concern and we will do all that we can to investigate this incident robustly and bring those responsible to justice.”
“Anyone with information on what happened in Forbury Gardens should call Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference 1159 20/6.”
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