Five people were injured in a knife attack at the Arndale Centre in Manchester on Friday. A 40-year-old man, initially arrested on suspicion of terror offences, has been detained under the Mental Health Act after being assessed by specialist doctors.
Greater Manchester Police said three people were stabbed and two others were hurt when a man with a large knife began lunging at shoppers. The suspect chased two unarmed police community support officers before being detained by armed officers within five minutes on Market Street.
Assistant Chief Constable Russ Jackson described the attack as 'random' and 'brutal'. He said the man entered the Exchange Court area and lunged at shoppers before chasing the officers. Police believe the man was acting alone, and investigations into his motives are continuing.
Three people were taken to hospital, including a 19-year-old woman and a man in his 50s, both in a stable condition. A fourth person later sought treatment for a superficial injury, while a fifth did not require hospital treatment. One patient suffered serious injuries, according to the North West Ambulance Service.
The centre was placed on lockdown as officers confronted the attacker. Witnesses described scenes of panic, with shoppers screaming and taking refuge in stores. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was 'shocked by the incident' and his thoughts were with those affected.
