Police issue update after 'shocking' Bootle Strand attack

At around 5.45pm, Merseyside Police were called to Stanley Road to reports of a man in his 40s being assaulted, and sustaining lacerations to his head and face, caused by a ‘bladed weapon’. The victim was taken to hospital for assessment and is in a stable condition.

As a result of the attack, Merseyside Police closed off large parts of the Bootle Strand shopping centre on Stanley Road, with a number of shops and restaurants inside the cordon. Door-to-door enquiries have been carried out, and forensic and CCTV work continues today (January 23).

Detective Inspector Sara Lang said: "This would have been a shocking incident to witness, and we are keen to speak to anyone who saw what happened, or who has since heard any information about those responsible. We initially think that this was a targeted attack by people known to the victim but we are keeping an open mind as to the motive.

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"Knife crime devastates communities, so if you know anything, come forward now through the official channels, and as always we will look to take positive action to find these offenders and remove them from the streets. Additionally, if you know of anyone who is in possession of weapons, speak to us before harm is caused to them and others.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC on X or Facebook, or 101, with reference 720. You can also come forward anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.