In a shocking incident at Preston railway station, a 53-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder after a violent attack on a British Transport Police officer. The assault occurred on the evening of September 7 at around 9:30pm, during which the officer sustained serious injuries consistent with a stabbing.
The suspect, identified as Russel Smith, a resident of Shakespeare Road, Preston, has been formally charged with one count of attempted murder and one count of possession of a bladed article.
Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene, and the injured officer was rushed to hospital for treatment. While the officer’s injuries are serious, medical professionals have confirmed that they are not life-threatening or life-changing, providing some relief to his family, colleagues, and the wider community.
Smith has been remanded into custody and is set to appear before Preston Magistrates Court later today to face the charges.
The investigation is ongoing, and British Transport Police have appealed for witnesses or anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward.