Hospital attack suspect detained under Mental Health Act

A man was arrested after an attack at a Merseyside hospital. He has been detained under the Mental Health Act. Police have confirmed this information.

Six people were injured when a man entered Newton Community Hospital in Newton-le-Willows and assaulted staff and patients with a metal bar shortly after midday.

The suspect, a 20-year-old local resident originally from Afghanistan, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, affray and criminal damage. He has since been detained under mental health legislation, Merseyside Police said.

Officers said all six victims were treated at hospitals and walk-in centres for injuries including cuts to the head, injuries to hands and arms and bruising. All were reported to be in a stable condition.

Police said the man had asked for an appointment at the hospital but became “increasingly agitated” when this was refused and he was asked to leave. He is believed to have damaged a counter before striking people inside the building.

Forensic officers are examining the weapon used in the attack. Detectives are reviewing CCTV footage. They are also speaking to witnesses.

Sugedaran Shanmugaraja, who works at a shop opposite the hospital, said an injured woman ran into his store seeking help.
“She had blood on her head and asked me to call the police,” he said. “She said someone was attacking everybody.”
He added that numerous police vehicles arrived shortly afterwards and nurses came into the shop to treat the woman.

Local resident Hannah West said she saw injured people and staff being evacuated as emergency services arrived.
“I heard constant sirens. Then I saw people being brought out. A man was put into a police van,” she said. “The staff looked very stressed but were focused on helping patients. One woman was wrapped up in a wheelchair and taken to an ambulance.”

Superintendent Sarah Rotherham said extra officers had been deployed in the area to reassure residents.
“We understand this incident will have caused concern locally. I hope people feel reassured by the police presence,” she said. “Anyone with worries should speak to an officer or contact their local station.”

Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs the hospital, said it was working closely with police. This follows the incident.