A young girl, believed to be around eight years old, has been taken to hospital after being stabbed in a block of flats in Christchurch. Dorset Police responded to reports of the stabbing at an address in Glider Close at 5:45 p.m. on Tuesday, August 20.
The girl, whose injuries are not described as life-threatening, is receiving treatment at the hospital. In connection with the incident, a man in his 20s from Christchurch has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. Additionally, a local woman in her 50s has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. Both remain in police custody.
Residents reported a large emergency response, with armed police, detectives, and a forensic team on the scene. An air ambulance was also called, landing at Christchurch Rugby Club nearby. Police cordoned off the block of flats, and officers conducted door-to-door inquiries while crime scene investigators examined the area.
Chief Superintendent Stewart Dipple of Dorset Police addressed the community’s concerns, stating: “There is an increased policing presence in the area as officers conduct enquiries at the scene. I am appealing to anyone who was in the area and saw what happened, or has information to assist our investigation, to please come forward.”
He urged the public not to speculate about the circumstances of the incident as investigations are still in the early stages.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police via their website or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240128372. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
Police have assured the public that neighbourhood officers will be patrolling the area and available for residents to speak to.
