A 20-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly attacking several people with a metal bar at Newton Community Hospital in Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside, on Tuesday. Police reports indicate between five and six people were treated for injuries including head lacerations, with the suspect becoming "increasingly agitated" after being denied a hospital appointment.
The man, originally from Afghanistan and living in Newton-le-Willows, allegedly damaged a counter at the hospital before assaulting several people believed to include staff members. Officers responded immediately to reports of aggressive behavior at the facility.
Superintendent Sarah Rotherham of Merseyside Police said: «We were called to reports of a man behaving aggressively at the hospital who had assaulted a number of people. Officers attended immediately and the male was swiftly located and arrested.»
Injuries and medical response
The injured sustained head lacerations, injuries to arms and hands, and bruising. All those affected were in stable condition and not life-threatening injuries. Paramedics from North West Ambulance Service provided first aid at the scene.
Superintendent Rotherham added: «Paramedics attended at the hospital and carried out first aid to those who had been injured. I would like to take this opportunity for anyone who witnessed this incident at the hospital to contact us with any information.»
Arrest and legal status
The suspect was arrested on suspicion of multiple counts of wounding, affray, and criminal damage. He was later detained under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act. Police recovered the metal bar for forensic examination.
A police cordon remained in place at the community hospital on Wednesday, with a mobile police station set up on site to provide increased visibility.
Community response
Local councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron posted on Facebook: «There has been an incident at Newton Hospital. Around 5 people have been injured.» He confirmed: «All of which are now OK and safe and are able to contact their families. Do not speculate on Facebook. The police have still cordoned off the scene so avoid the area.»
The councillor praised emergency services: «I can only thank Merseyside Police and North West Ambulance Service for such a swift and efficient response, running into a scenario where danger is unknown. It's a shock, but as always, we need to await the full facts without speculation.»
Superintendent Rotherham addressed public concerns: «We understand that this incident would have caused concern for the local community and I hope the public feel reassured by the increased police presence. I would ask anyone with concerns to speak to one of our officers or contact their local police station.»
Anyone with information can contact Merseyside Police via social media @MerPolCC on X and Facebook, by calling 101, or through the force website, quoting reference number 25001060801.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
