Police have launched an attempted murder investigation after a 19-year-old boy was wrestled to the ground and stabbed in front of horrified onlookers.
Police and paramedics, as well as an air ambulance, were dispatched to the scene following reports of a stabbing near Wigan bus station on Thursday afternoon (July 18).
A video of the horrific incident, shared on social media, appears to show the 19-year-old victim lying helpless on the ground as a man stood over him and stabbed him.
READ MORE Wigan MP Lisa Nandy issues statement after ‘attempted murder’ in bus station knife attack
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they were aware of the footage and have since arrested two men, aged 30 and 19, on suspicion of attempted murder. The 19-year-old victim was rushed to hospital. His injuries are not described as life-threatening.
Several police vehicles blocked the main road while an air ambulance was seen landing nearby after the incident. Roads surrounding the market were also closed.
The incident sparked outrage on social media, with one person posting: “Where is this world going?” and another writing: “What the hell is going on! No one is safe anymore.”
Wigan MP Lisa Nandy also released a statement after the violent incident, posting on X: “Following the very serious incident that took place in the town centre earlier today, I contacted Greater Manchester Police. They immediately responded to the incident and made a number of arrests.
“They also want to reassure people in Wigan that there is no wider risk to the public. I would ask people to avoid speculation and to contact Greater Manchester Police if they have any information that could assist the investigation.
“Keeping our town centre safe is a top priority for all of us and I will be having further discussions with the police and Wigan Council about this in the coming days.”
Inspector Sam Davies, of GMP’s Wigan District, said: “Officers responded immediately to the scene and pursued the offenders. Both suspects remain in our custody and a knife has been recovered.
“Another of our officers provided first aid to the victim, who was taken to hospital for treatment. While the incident undoubtedly raises concerns, I want to highlight the positive response we have provided and reassure the public that we treat incidents of this nature with the utmost seriousness.
“This appears to be an isolated incident and there is no indication that there is a wider risk to the community. The public should expect an increased police presence in the area as a reassurance.
“GMP’s commitment to tackling knife crime remains a priority, and we will continue to work alongside our partners to identify those involved, provide preventative advice and ensure those carrying and using weapons are brought to justice.
“One person injured with a knife is already too many. Within the police, we are doing proactive and educational work to help get knives off the streets.”
