Park stabbing: What we know so far after man is stabbed by youths

Simon Mulligan looks at what we know so far about the crime as detectives continue to appeal for information.

When are where did the attack happen?

The 36-year-old man was stabbed on Thursday evening, November 21.

At around 5.30pm officers were called to Morrisons on Boundary Road to a report that he had been stabbed.

The victim had been walking along Eccleston Branchline Linear Park, which runs between Boundary Road and Dunriding Lane.

What happened?

Police say the man was walking along the park's pathway when he encountered five youths. It is alleged they stabbed him following an argument.

He was taken to hospital for treatment to serious injuries which police say are not life-threatening.

No further details about his injuries have been released.

Where is the police investigation up to?

CCTV and forensic inquiries have been carried out in the area near to where the attack took place.

Police have urged residents or people who were driving nearby at the time to check home CCTV or dashcam footage.

So far no details about the weapon used or descriptions of the youths have been released.

The attack happened in the woodland on Thursday evening (Image: St Helens Star) Police say officers have been patrolling the area along and a mobile police station was there for residents to pop in with any concerns they may have.

Inspector Neighbourhood Policing, Josh Griffiths said: “We are in the early stages of the investigation, and we would appeal to anyone who was in the vicinity and witnessed the stabbing to please come forward and speak to us.

“I also urge people in the area to check your CCTV and dashcam footage to see if it has captured any footage, no matter how small, as any information may help with the investigation.”

Knife crime

The incident took place following a major Merseyside Police campaign aimed at reducing knife crime.

Inspector Griffiths added: “Reducing knife crime is a priority all year round in Merseyside. We are committed to proactively use stop and search powers, carry out open land searches, warrants and education work alongside partners to remove weapons from the streets.

“While we are making positive progress, we understand the devastating consequences of carrying a knife and are relentless in our approach to targeting and pursuing criminals.

“The use of knives and any weapons is reckless and will not be tolerated, and can have tragic consequences, not only for the victim and their family but also for the offenders involved.

“I would urge people to educate themselves and speak to their children and family members about the dangers of knife crime.

“There is no place for knives in our communities. I would urge anyone with information to get in touch so we can act on community intelligence or call Crimestoppers anonymously.”

Anyone with information on the stabbing is asked to DM @MerPolCC or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 quoting reference 24000986297.

If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of St Helens. Please get in touch at simon.mulligan@newsquest.co.uk