A man is in hospital after being stabbed in an alleyway in Swindon earlier today (Tuesday).
The broad daylight attack happened between Cricklade Road and Handel Street, close to Gorse Hill Baptist Church, at around 11.45am – resulting in the busy route being closed.
Ambulance crews, supported by critical care medics from Wiltshire Air Ambulance, treated a man – aged in his 30s – for knife wounds before rushing him to the Great Western Hospital.
Eyewitnesses claim the injured male sustained wounds to his head, neck and chest – but Wiltshire Police has confirmed that the wounds aren’t believed to be life-changing or life-threatening.
Armed police were deployed alongside local officers to hunt for an outstanding suspect. Whitworth Road Cemetery, in Pinehurst, was cordoned off as searches were carried out.
The National Police Air Service helicopter from Bristol was also deployed and circled Swindon from above for around one hour, assisting with the urgent search.
At the scene, detectives carried out enquiries – knocking on doors and viewing local businesses’ CCTV footage. An officer also took photographs of the alleyway behind the Iceland car park, where there appear to be blood splatter.
In a statement, the force said: “We have set up a scene near Handel Street and Cricklade Road, Swindon, following a stabbing.
“At around 11.45am, a man in his 30s suffered injuries in a serious assault. He has been taken to hospital to be treated for his injuries, which are not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing.
“A cordon has been put in place in the area while we investigate. Members of the public are likely to see an increased police presence in the area.
“If you saw what happened, or have information that can help with our enquiries, please contact us on 101 or 999 in an emergency quoting log 109 of today’s date (01/08).”