Hero Cop Stabbed in Guts Chases Knife-Wielding Teens in Westminster
PC Stephanie Clarke and PC Leigh Walker were on a covert patrol in Westminster on 4 October 2020 when chaos broke out. Two teenage boys bolted from a grocery store as the shopkeepers screamed for help.
PC Walker tackled one suspect, believing they were trying to rob the shop, while PC Clarke moved in to help detain them. Suddenly, Clarke felt a sharp pain in her side.
Brave Officer Stabbed but Keeps Chasing Attackers
The boys escaped, but Clarke gave chase, thinking she’d been punched—until she spotted a knife in their hands. She kept running despite realising she was bleeding heavily from a stab wound to her abdomen.
She quickly radioed PC Walker, warning him the suspects were armed and that she’d been stabbed. Thanks to swift backup from firearms officers, the two 15-year-olds were soon caught. The attacker who stabbed Clarke got three and a half years in juvenile detention.
“Gruesome Injury” Didn’t Stop PC Clarke
“My colleagues were worried I might have an internal bleed, so I went to the trauma unit for a scan,”
said PC Clarke, now a Trainee Detective Constable. The knife wound penetrated about two inches into her stomach muscle—but luckily missed vital organs.
Her supervisor didn’t let her back on duty until after her stitches were removed. But Clarke was straight back out on the beat, undeterred.
“The court process was tough, but I later visited the young offender in detention. It gave me closure and showed me rehabilitation works,”
she added.
“I feel lucky to have this job. You can really help people—and that’s what I’m determined to keep doing. I’m very grateful for this recognition.”
Met Police Praise Fearless Officer
Ken Marsh, Chair of the Metropolitan Police Federation, hailed Clarke as a “courageous hero” and shining example of the bravery our officers show daily.
“Despite a gruesome injury, Steph chased down the suspects. She ran towards danger and showed immense bravery and professionalism. We’re very proud of her.”
National Police Bravery Awards Honours Heroism
PC Clarke has been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards, which celebrate officers across England and Wales who go above and beyond on or off duty.
She will join fellow brave officers at the awards ceremony in London this July, receiving the recognition she deserves. London’s streets are safer thanks to heroes like her.
