A nurse has recounted a terrifying ordeal where she was "beaten nearly to death" with a crowbar during a violent rampage at a Merseyside hospital that left six people injured.
Horror During a Routine Shift
The incident unfolded at Newton Community Hospital in Newton-Le-Willows shortly after midday on Tuesday, 31 December. Police flooded the scene following reports of an assault in progress.
District nurse Meg Lynch described stopping to get a drink from a vending machine during her busy shift when she was allegedly attacked from behind. She reported feeling "a few blows to the head" from a metal bar before she managed to run and hide, barricading a door between herself and the assailant.
"I was beaten nearly to death with a crow bar by an unknown man," Lynch posted on her Facebook page. "I’m so so so lucky I’m still alive and I’m so lucky I ran when I did, otherwise I wouldn’t be here right now."
Police Investigation and Suspect Details
Merseyside Police revealed that the suspect, a 20-year-old man originally from Afghanistan, had attended the hospital to request an appointment. He became "increasingly agitated" when his request was declined and he was asked to leave.
The force stated he then damaged a counter before assaulting multiple people inside the hospital. The weapon, a metal bar, has been recovered for forensic examination.
The suspect was taken to a police station and has since been detained under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act. A scene remains in place at the hospital, with a mobile police station deployed to reassure the local community.
Aftermath and Community Reassurance
A total of six people required hospital treatment or treatment at walk-in centres following the incident. Injuries included head lacerations, wounds to arms and hands, and bruising. All are reported to be in a stable condition.
Nurse Lynch was treated at Whiston Hospital's A&E department, where she praised staff as "absolutely amazing." She underwent CT scans and X-rays, which came back clear, and had her head wound stitched. She is now recovering at home with her family.
St Helens Local Policing Superintendent Sarah Rotherham said: "We understand that this incident would have caused concern for the local community and I hope the public feel reassured by the increased police presence." Witnesses are being spoken to and all available CCTV footage is being analysed as enquiries continue.
