Ashford town centre attack 'like Texas Chainsaw Massacre' movie
13:30, 23 September 2018
updated: 15:02, 23 September 2018
A shocking 'chainsaw' attack in a town centre has been likened to a horror movie.
A 31-year-old witness, who was set upon by a "crazed man", described last night's events, where a man was seen "swinging" the saw, as like a scene from Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
Armed police officers swooped in on Castle Street at about 8pm but are yet to make any arrests.
The witness said: "It was like something from a Chainsaw Massacre movie but without the leather mask.
"The man, who seemed to be intoxicated, was erratically swinging the petrol saw around and revving it - it was a very scary night.
"It was crazy and ridiculously not cool."
A shop window at Coral bookmakers was cut into and a nearby lamppost was also damaged.
Police were called after receiving reports of a man wielding a power tool and making threats to two members of the public.
The witness continued: "I was walking up to New Street from the bandstand when I could hear a chainsaw.
"I thought it was a bit strange for construction work to be going on at that time of night, and then I saw the man staggering down the round near Halifax.
"He placed the petrol-powered saw on the ground and pulled his t-shirt over the back of his head.
"He then started waving it around, saw me and went for me. I didn't want to be cornered so I sprinted away."
The suspect is said to have also attempted to target a man riding a bike through the town.
The witness, who was making his way to his town centre office, added: "I don't know if he was planning on targetting Coral or not, but he sliced the front window.
"You sometimes see fights in the town centre at night but you don't expect to see a man swinging a petrol saw around.
"He got away and I think he ran down to East Street and ditched the saw."
Police say no injuries were reported.
Officers continue to carry out inquiries, which includes the review of CCTV.
Any witnesses or anyone with information should call 01843 222289 as soon as possible quoting 22-1462.
Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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