‘I thought it was a safe area’: Neighbors’ shock after major crime scene set up

Whalley Range neighbors have spoken of their shock after a man was stabbed in a “nasty” attack in Whalley Range. Police were called to Withington Road around 8pm on Sunday, May 5, to find a man suffering from a stab wound.

He was taken to hospital, where his injuries were not life-threatening. Greater Manchester Police said officers were “determined to find the person responsible”. No arrests have been made.

A cordon remained in place today (Bank Holiday Monday) at the Bowling Green Court apartments. Crime scene investigation specialists were seen searching for clues and a 27-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent.

LEARN MORE: Whalley Range investigation underway after man stabbed building

One person said they did not hear the attack because of the noise of children playing, but saw blood on the floor after leaving their home. He said people were “shocked” and neighbors were relatively “united”.

Another person said their phone rang repeatedly as worried friends and family checked to make sure they were OK after seeing the news.

Tony Sheppard, 58, who lives opposite, said he was returning from a night out when he saw fire trucks and an ambulance.

“I’ve lived here for years and it’s actually very quiet. It’s a real shock that something like this would happen,” he told the Manchester Evening News.

He added: “I hope they arrest the man who did it. Crimes like this need to have consequences.”

Long-time Whalley Range resident Leslie Loram, 69, said: “You wouldn’t expect this at all in this area. But that said, knife crime in general is on the rise and I just don’t understand it. It is annoying. Let’s hope they catch him. »

Liam Campbell, 82, said: “It’s changed a lot over the years, it’s nowhere near as bad as it used to be.” Ted Hicks, 27, said: “It’s alarming, I’ve always felt safe here. I hope this guy is ok.

“But of course it’s a city, and of course there’s crime here. I’m sure you could go down any street and there would have been a stabbing at some point.”

Anna, who did not want to give her full name, said: “I thought it was a safe area, so it’s surprising that something like this happened here. Right around the corner, it’s all tree-lined streets.”

Detective Inspector Leanne Gibb said: “Our officers are working hard at the scene to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident. This is a nasty attack and we are determined to apprehend the person responsible.

“I would like to reassure the local community that we believe this is an isolated incident and that there is no greater risk to the public. We have deployed officers to the scene to assist you with investigations and if you have any concerns I urge you to speak to them.

“We also appeal for any information or footage – including mobile, CCTV or dashcam. You can make a report to the police by calling 0161 856 6051 or 101 quoting incident number 3139 of 5/5/24 .”

Patrols have been stepped up in the area following the incident, although there is not believed to be any risk to the public following this “isolated attack”.

A Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) spokesperson said: “Shortly before 10.30pm yesterday (Sunday May 5), two fire engines from Moss Side and Salford fire stations were called to attending an incident on Withington Road, Manchester.

“Crews arrived quickly and assisted Greater Manchester Police at the scene before leaving after approximately an hour and 30 minutes on the scene.”