Police still hunting youths over knife attack at park in St Helens

The victim suffered serious injuries in the knife attack last Thursday evening, November 21.

Officers appealed for information after the stabbing at Eccleston Branchline Linear Park, off Boundary Road.

At around 5.30pm police had been called to Morrisons on Boundary Road to a report that a man had been stabbed.

It was reported that the victim, 36-year-old man, was walking along the park when he had encountered five youths, who stabbed him following an argument.

READ > Dog owner praises 'heroic' son and police for saving pet during 'vicious' attack

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

A police investigation is underway with CCTV and forensic inquiries having been carried out in the local area.

When asked for an update on their investigation, a Merseyside Police spokeswoman said today (Wednesday, November 27) that they have not made any arrests in connection with the stabbing at this stage.

Inquiries remain ongoing.

Eccleston Branchline Linear Park (Image: Google Street View)

In the wake of the attack, 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.”

Following the stabbing, officers have been patrolling the area and a mobile police station was in situ for residents to attend with any concerns they may have. 

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