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Rochester and Strood MP Kelly Tolhurst praises ‘exceptional bravery’ of bystanders who detained High Street stabbing suspect

15:47, 12 May 2023

updated: 17:04, 12 May 2023

MP Kelly Tolhurst has praised the bravery of members of the public who intervened when a man was stabbed in Rochester this morning.

A man was flown to hospital with serious injuries, while another sustained minor injuries during an assault at the junction of Star Hill and the High Street at around 9.30am this morning.

Emergency services at the junction of Star Hill and Rochester High Street. Picture: @timbobsquare on Twitter
Emergency services at the junction of Star Hill and Rochester High Street. Picture: @timbobsquare on Twitter

Police say members of the public were involved in detaining the suspect and officers subsequently arrested a 20-year-old man, who remains in custody.

Ambulance crews attended the scene and gave treatment to a 19-year-old man, who is said to be in a serious condition in a London Hospital.

A 20-year-old man was arrested and an investigation into the circumstances is underway.

Detective Inspector Paul Fewtrell, of Medway CID, said: “Members of the public were involved in initially detaining the suspect and I am asking any of them who have not yet spoken to the police, to call our appeal line.

“We are also appealing for anybody else who may have witnessed this incident to contact us.

“It is understood some people may have taken photographs or videos on their phones and I would urge them to call us, rather than sharing any images online.”

A man has been arrested after a stabbing at the junction of Rochester High Street and Star Hill this morning
A man has been arrested after a stabbing at the junction of Rochester High Street and Star Hill this morning

Anyone with information should call 01634 792209, quoting reference 46/84221/23.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org to complete the online form on their website.

Rochester MP Kelly Tolhurst issued a statement, saying she wanted to reassure members of the public, adding: “A suspect is in custody and weapons have been recovered, it is believed to be an isolated incident and the police will be continuing to monitor the area.

“Sadly two people were injured, one seriously who is being treated in London.

“I remain in contact with the police on this issue and we now need to allow the Police to carry out their investigations.

“The suspect was apprehended by members of the public and the police were on the scene quickly.

“The bravery of those members of the public who apprehended and held the suspect was exceptional. Thank you to the police and emergency services who attended the scene so quickly.

“If anyone has any concerns please contact me.”

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