AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after a man was stabbed in the back while unloading shopping.

The 44-year-old victim was taking shopping from his car in St Denys Road, Southampton between 6.30pm and 7pm on Tuesday.

Someone came up behind him before stabbing him in the lower back, leaving him with a small puncture wound.

The victim was unable to see his assailant, who ran away from the scene quickly.

He received hospital treatment for his injury but has not suffered any long term effects.

DC Martin Brewer from the Western Investigation Team said: “This was a busy time of day on St Denys Road, you may have been passing in vehicle or on foot. Did you see anyone running?

“If you live in the area, did you see anyone acting suspiciously, before or after the incident?

"We would like to remind residents to be alert, but not alarmed and report anything suspicious.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 and quote 44160307640."