Police are searching for two men following a daylight stabbing of a woman in a County Durham park. The victim, believed to be in her fifties, was attacked in Hardwick Green Park, Stockton-on-Tees, at approximately 1:40 pm on Sunday, May 3.
Details of the Attack
The suspect, described as wearing dark clothing and a face covering, approached the woman and allegedly stabbed her with a knife. He was reportedly accompanied by another man on a pedal bike. After the assault, both suspects fled into a wooded area of the park. The woman sustained a stab wound, but police have stated her injuries are not life-threatening.
Police Investigation
Detectives from Cleveland Police are treating the incident as a targeted assault. Detective Sergeant Paul Edmonds from Stockton CID said, 'I understand this incident may cause some concern, however, this appears to have been a targeted assault with no threat to the wider community.' Police have reassured residents that there is no ongoing danger to the public.
Appeal for Information
Authorities are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dash cam or CCTV footage from the park at the time of the attack to come forward. A police cordon was erected near houses and a tower block in the park. This incident follows a previous attack on April 20, when a woman was dragged to the floor near the park's play area but managed to escape. It is not known if the two incidents are connected.
Anyone with information is urged to call 101 quoting reference 083578, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111 or online.
