Coventry Teen Named and Charged After West Orchards Shopping Centre ‘Knife Disorder’
A teenager has been named and charged in connection with a disturbing knife incident at Coventry’s West Orchards Shopping Centre that sparked panic among shoppers and staff.
West Midlands Police confirmed on Monday that 18-year-old Treyon Benjamin, of Coventry, has been charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place and violent disorder following a confrontation involving machetes at the busy city centre shopping mall.
The incident, which occurred on **Saturday afternoon**, saw terrified shoppers flee the area as two groups reportedly clashed inside the shopping centre. Witnesses described the shocking scenes as “like something out of a movie,” with several individuals seen brandishing large blades in a confrontation that lasted minutes but left a lasting impact on those present.
Emergency services rushed to the scene shortly after 3:30 pm on May 4, following multiple calls reporting a disturbance involving weapons. A section of the shopping centre was quickly evacuated and cordoned off as officers moved in to secure the area. No serious injuries were reported, though police have confirmed that at least one person sustained minor injuries in the chaos.
Footage circulating on social media showed individuals wielding what appeared to be machetes near the food court area, prompting widespread alarm. Officers made several arrests over the weekend, and following further investigations, Benjamin was officially charged.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said:
> “We responded swiftly to reports of a violent disorder involving bladed weapons at West Orchards Shopping Centre on Saturday. Our officers arrived promptly to bring the situation under control and prevent further harm. We can confirm that an 18-year-old man, Treyon Benjamin, has now been charged in connection with the incident.”
Benjamin appeared before Coventry Magistrates’ Court on **Monday morning**, where he was remanded in custody ahead of a future court date. Police have stated that investigations are ongoing, and more individuals may be identified and arrested in connection with the violence.
The incident has reignited concerns over youth violence and knife crime in the city. Local leaders have called for urgent action and stronger community outreach to prevent similar events.
Coventry City Councillor **Abdul Salam Khan**, cabinet member for policing and community safety, said:
> “This incident is deeply troubling and highlights the urgent need to tackle the root causes of violent behaviour among young people. We are working closely with police, schools, and community groups to ensure our city centre remains a safe place for everyone.”
West Orchards Shopping Centre reopened on Sunday with increased security presence and support for affected staff and retailers. A spokesperson for the centre said:
> “The safety of our customers and staff is our top priority. We are cooperating fully with police investigations and have taken immediate steps to reassure the public.”
Anyone with additional information or footage is urged to contact West Midlands Police via Live Chat on their website or by calling 101, quoting incident number 20/492736/24
Read more on;https://www.sportupdates.co.uk
Leave a Reply