A man has been rushed to hospital with serious injuries following a stabbing incident in north Belfast, where brave bystanders intervened to tackle the attacker to the ground. The assault occurred on Kinnaird Avenue at approximately 10:30pm on Monday, 8th June, prompting an immediate response from police.
Horrific Scene Unfolds
Local residents described scenes of chaos as shocking videos circulated online, appearing to show a man being stabbed repeatedly in the head. In the footage, two bystanders can be seen stepping in to assist the wounded man on the ground. One woman is heard shouting, "Get off him, ya f****** rat," before a man attacked the assailant with what appears to be a hurling stick moments before police arrived.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that one man has been arrested in connection with the incident. A substantial police presence remains in the area, with cordons established for forensic examination. An eyewitness told the Belfast Telegraph that "three men, one armed with a hurl, got the fella with the knife off the victim."
Victim in Critical Condition
As of 7:40am on June 9, the alleged victim remains in critical condition in hospital. Councillor Paul McCusker described the scenes as "horrific" and praised the bravery of residents. "Horrific scenes on the streets of North Belfast tonight, terrifying for anyone to witness or watch this on social media," he said. "I have spoken to the police and the male who carried out the attack has been arrested and the victim is critical in hospital. I really hope he survives this attack and his family are getting support. The bravery of those residents was commendable."
Police Appeal for Information
A PSNI spokesperson stated: "Police in north Belfast are currently in attendance at Kinnaird Avenue following the report of a stabbing incident shortly after 10:30pm on Monday 8th June. A man has been arrested in relation to the incident and is in police custody while a second man has been taken to hospital with serious injuries."
Officers will remain in the area to conduct enquiries and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dash-cam or CCTV footage from the area to contact them at Tennent Street on 101, quoting reference number 1654 08/06/26.
