A soldier was stabbed in a shocking attack in Gillingham on the evening of Tuesday, July 23, 2024. The incident took place at approximately 5.55pm in Sally Port Gardens.
Police responded swiftly to reports that a man in his 40s, wearing a military uniform, had sustained stab wounds. The victim was immediately taken to hospital with serious but stable injuries.
The suspect, a 24-year-old local man, fled the scene on a motorcycle. However, police apprehended him around 6.30pm on Mooring Road in Rochester after a high-speed chase.
Officers established cordons at both Sally Port Gardens and Mooring Road. Several knives believed to be connected to the assault were seized as part of the investigation.
Acting Chief Superintendent Richard Woolley of Kent Police said, “This was an upsetting incident for all concerned and our best wishes go to the victim, his family and those who witnessed the incident.”
He added, “Residents will see a heightened police presence in Gillingham. We acted swiftly to detain the suspect and currently believe no one else was involved.”
Regarding the motive, Woolley stated, “The motive is unclear but we’re investigating whether mental health issues played a role and are looking into connections between the location and the suspect.”
He reassured the public, saying, “There is no indication of any wider threat to the local community or armed forces members.”
Local residents remain on edge as police continue their inquiries. Authorities have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.
Originally published by UKNIP.
