Police have issued an update on their investigation into a horrific stabbing near a golf course in Staffordshire, as the perpetrator remains at large.
Attack Details
A man in his 60s was knifed on a public footpath through Stafford's Castle Golf Club course, off Castle Way on Thursday, May 14. Emergency services were called shortly before 7pm and found the victim in a critical condition.
West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "We were called to reports of a stabbing on Newport Road at 6.58pm. One ambulance, a paramedic officer, a MERIT trauma doctor with a critical care paramedic, and the Midlands Air Ambulance Critical Care Car attended the scene. On arrival we discovered one patient, a man. He was treated for serious injuries before being taken to hospital by land ambulance for further treatment."
Victim Condition
Staffordshire Police reported that the man was in a 'critical but stable' condition on Friday. On Sunday, the force stated the victim remains in a critical condition in hospital. "Specialist officers are continuing to support him and his family," they said.
Suspect Description
Initially, police said they were looking for a man in his mid to late 20s, of average build, wearing dark clothing. In a later update, they said the knifeman was 'potentially of Eastern European heritage'.
Manhunt and Police Response
The manhunt continues with more police in the Castlefields area and nearby. The force said there would be a 'significant and sustained police response', including patrols, house-to-house enquiries, extensive searches, and forensic examinations. Staffordshire Police is being supported by neighbouring forces.
Detective Inspector Dave Rowlands said: "I want to reassure the community that we are doing everything in our power to identify and apprehend those responsible. There is a significant policing operation underway, including increased patrols in the area, and I would encourage anyone with concerns to speak to our officers. Your information remains vital to our investigation, and even the smallest detail could make a difference."
Staffordshire Police added: "We want the public to feel safe and confident in their community. While incidents of this nature are rare, we recognise the impact they have, and we are taking this extremely seriously."
Appeal for Information
Police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward. The force spokesperson said: "We continue to appeal to anyone who was in the Castlefields area between 5pm and 8pm on Thursday 14 May, or anyone who may have dashcam or CCTV footage, to come forward. Information can be submitted via our dedicated online portal or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
