What we know so far after stabbing in London Road, Southampton

Around 10 officers, seven police cars and an ambulance were in London Road, near Southampton city centre, as officers dealt with the stabbing yesterday.

A large cordon was in place when officers arrived at around 10am after a man in his 30s was found with serious injuries. 

Police have confirmed they have now arrested a man.

Police confirm stabbing

According to police, the man remains in hospital.

The incident was first reported as a serious assault but it's now being investigated as a stabbing. 

Friends and nurses at Southampton General Hospital, Monica Pinto and Andreia Martins, were shocked to see the police presence.

Monica said: "We came down this road for a coffee. We don’t know what’s going on, but it looks really scary."

Andreia said: "I am actually from Portugal and have only been in Southampton for a few months. This is the first time I've experienced something like this."

Another resident, Kevin West, who works at a shop near the crime scene, told the Echo: "Something like this hasn't happened in ages, and it is quite unusual.

"The police turned up around 10am." 

Block of flats guarded by police

The large cordon was in place outside Southampton Kebab shop, Mexigo and Tesco. 

Vernon Walk and a block of flats next to the London Road Brew House were also cordoned off. 

Officers also blocked the road at its junctions with Bellevue Road and Cumberland Place.

Pedestrians and motorists were told to avoid the area by the officers. 

Man in his 30s injured

In a statement on social media, the force said: "We wanted to let you know that London Road is currently closed while we respond to an incident that has taken place.

"At 9.55am, we were called to a report of an injured man in London Road.

"The man, in his 30s, was taken to the hospital with serious injuries, where he remains at this time.

"Scenes are currently in place while officers conduct enquiries in the area.

"We would like to thank you for your patience and advise you to find alternate routes when travelling."

The roads have now opened up again. A smaller cordon remains in place.

Man arrested

A 31-year-old from Southampton was arrested at 10.30pm on Wednesday on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Police made the arrest when responding to reports of a concern for welfare incident in Parsonage Road. 

The arrested man remains in police custody at this time and enquiries continue.

Police appeal

Officers investigating the stabbing are appealing for witnesses.

A spokesperson said: “We would like anyone who saw what happened, or who has any other information about this incident, and has not yet contacted us, to please do so.

“Perhaps you were driving past this incident and may have captured it on a dash cam?

“If so, please call 101, quoting the reference number 44220269380, or via our website https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/.

“Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

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