Teenage stabbing in Kouvola leaves youth on edge

A 14-year-old girl remains in hospital after being stabbed in Kouvola on Tuesday evening, an attack that has left local teenagers unsettled, reports Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

A 13-year-old girl is suspected of attempted murder in the incident, which occurred near Kouvola railway station in Salpapuisto park. Witnesses included other young people present at the scene.

A 17-year-old local boy, who asked to remain anonymous, told Yle the attack has been widely discussed among peers. “It’s sick what happened,” he said. While he does not avoid the city centre, he admitted avoiding the railway station area.

City youth services opened drop-in centres to provide support, with staff reporting some teens expressing hesitation about going outside. “A few shyly asked if it’s still safe to come to the yard, but that was a small group,” said youth worker Matti Rantanen.

Though many gathered at youth centres, few directly addressed the incident with counsellors. “If someone needs to talk, we’re here,” Rantanen added.

Another youth worker, Pekka Kalenius, noted that while most teens cope well, a minority struggle with stress and fear of failure. He emphasised the need for stronger family support and clear rules at home to prevent such incidents.

Police confirmed the victim suffered life-threatening injuries but is now in stable condition. Investigators have spoken with her as part of the ongoing case.