A 19-year-old man was slashed and stabbed in an early morning attack inside Birkenhead Park, prompting a major police response. Merseyside Police confirmed the victim suffered a serious laceration to his hand and stomach, as well as a wound to his thigh. The attack occurred around 1:45 a.m. on Sunday, and the teenager is in hospital receiving treatment in a stable condition, with injuries not believed to be life-threatening.
Police Cordon and Investigation
A large section of Birkenhead Park south of Ashville Road has been cordoned off by police, with a significant presence remaining in the area. The force said an investigation is underway, and CCTV and forensic enquiries continue. Detective Superintendent Joe Marston stated: "We are in the early stages of the investigation to establish the circumstances of what has taken place. I would appeal to anyone who was in the vicinity of the park and surrounding homes who had seen or heard anything to come forward."
Resident Accounts and Crime Scene
One resident reported being awoken by a police helicopter. The focus of police attention was around Birkenhead Park Cricket Club pitches. An 18th birthday party was held in the club's pavilion on Saturday night, though the force has not confirmed a connection. All gates to the south part of the park were locked by Wirral Council, and police cordoned off areas between trees and bushes. A local Facebook group reported seeing "someone on the floor covered in a silver blanket," while another witness saw a group of "eight to 10ish young lads" hanging around after taxis had picked up others.
A resident who asked not to be named told the ECHO: "I took the dog out earlier than usual this morning because I couldn't sleep with the heat. I was told by police officers that I couldn't go in because there had been a serious incident." Another said: "I live just opposite the park but didn't hear anything until a neighbour told me there were police everywhere. You always worry when you see that amount of police."
Ongoing Search and Community Appeal
Merseyside Police Matrix unit officers began a fingertip search at around 2 p.m. The park remained closed except for cricketers from St Mary's Cricket Club, whose pitch borders Ashville Road, to start their match. Detective Superintendent Marston added: "Reducing knife crime is a priority all year round. We are committed to using stop and search powers, open land searches, warrants, and education work alongside partners to remove weapons from the streets. The use of knives is reckless and will not be tolerated."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police quoting reference 26000516874 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.
