Helsinki police detain 17-year-old after stabbing in Kaivopuisto park

A 17-year-old male is in custody after allegedly slashing another young man in the face with an edged weapon in Helsinki’s Kaivopuisto park late Saturday, police report.

The victim, described as a young adult, sustained non-life-threatening facial injuries and was transferred for further medical treatment, according to Hannu Lehikoinen, Helsinki Police’s chief of operations. Authorities have not disclosed the victim’s exact age.

The suspect fled the scene but was quickly apprehended. He is under preliminary investigation for aggravated assault, though charges may be adjusted as the probe continues.

Lehikoinen confirmed the incident followed an altercation but declined to provide further details, citing the ongoing investigation led by a designated lead investigator. He also would not comment on whether the suspect has a prior criminal record, stating only that the inquiry remains in its early stages.

The stabbing occurred amid heightened police activity in Kaivopuisto, where crowds had gathered for school graduation celebrations. By 11 p.m., authorities cleared the park as part of broader efforts to manage public order. Helsinki’s youth services, supported by the Finnish Red Cross, reported assisting over 4,500 young people throughout the evening, with 144 requiring first aid.