A tragic incident has shaken a residential area in Schiedam, near Rotterdam. A 13-year-old boy was stabbed on Sunday afternoon. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he did not survive.
Later that same day, another 13-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the incident, as reported by RTL Nieuws.
Investigation and youth violence concerns
So far, the police have not disclosed further details about the suspect — but they have confirmed that he is under investigation for involvement in the crime.
During his arrest, forensic specialists were seen wrapping the boy’s hands in plastic to preserve potential evidence.
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Peter Ottens, co-founder of local youth organisation YETS, highlighted the deep impact on local youth workers.
Knife violence among minors remains a pressing issue in the Rotterdam region, and in 2020, then-mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb initiated an action plan to combat youth weapon possession.
Community in shock
On Monday morning, a group of young people placed flowers at the scene of the stabbing.
Some knew the victim indirectly and expressed their disbelief. “Especially the young age affects people,” one resident told RTL Nieuws.
Authorities have acknowledged the impact of the event and have sent police officers and municipal employees to offer support.
The community is left with grief, questions, and an urgent need for solutions to prevent further violence among young people.
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