A 17-year-old boy was stabbed in the chest in front of shocked shoppers inside a Primark store in Nottingham city centre on Sunday morning, in what police have described as an “appalling act of violence.”
The attack occurred around 11:30 am on Long Row, with horrified customers witnessing the stabbing unfold inside the busy retail store. Emergency services rushed to the scene, where paramedics treated the victim before transporting him to hospital. His injuries, though serious, are not believed to be life-threatening.
A 16-year-old boy was later arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. Nottinghamshire Police confirmed the suspect fled the scene towards Market Square but was swiftly apprehended.
Detective Inspector Paul Shortt commented on the incident, stating, “This was an appalling act of violence carried out in full view of members of the public. A team of detectives is now working to understand exactly what happened before, during, and after this attack.”
Early investigations suggest that a fight broke out between a group of young people outside the store before the stabbing occurred inside. Photos from the scene showed a heavy police presence, with the store cordoned off as forensic teams worked at the location.
Primark has since closed its Nottingham branch and is cooperating fully with police inquiries. A spokesperson for the retailer said, “Our Nottingham store is currently closed until further notice following an incident that took place earlier today. Our thoughts are with the victim, and we are focused on supporting our colleagues who were in store at the time.”
The police are appealing to witnesses who may have seen or heard anything related to the incident. “No matter how significant you think your information may be, we want to hear from you without delay,” urged DI Shortt.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting incident 241 of 23 February 2025, or to provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
