A violent incident at a Merseyside community hospital left six people requiring medical treatment after a man, reportedly refused an appointment, allegedly assaulted staff and members of the public with a metal bar.
Details of the Hospital Assault
Merseyside Police were called to Newton Community Hospital in Newton-le-Willows shortly after midday on Tuesday, 31 December 2025. Officers responded to reports that a man had become "increasingly agitated" after his request for a hospital appointment was denied. The situation escalated, with the individual allegedly damaging a reception counter before assaulting several people, believed to include hospital staff.
The force confirmed that a metal bar was used during the assault and was later recovered for forensic examination. Six victims were treated for injuries at the hospital and local walk-in centres. Their injuries included head lacerations, wounds to their arms and hands, and bruising. All are now reported to be in a stable condition.
Arrest and Mental Health Detention
A 20-year-old man from Newton-le-Willows, who is originally from Afghanistan, was arrested at the scene. He was arrested on suspicion of six counts of wounding, affray, and criminal damage. After being taken to a police station in Merseyside, he was subsequently detained under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act.
Councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron, who represents the Newton-le-Willows ward, stated that his father, who lives next door to the hospital, heard commotion and reports of someone attacking staff and damaging the reception area. "I can only thank Merseyside Police and North West Ambulance Service for such a swift and efficient response, running into a scenario where danger is unknown," he said. "It’s a shock, but as always, we need to await the full facts without speculation."
Ongoing Police Presence and Community Reassurance
On Wednesday, police confirmed that a scene remained in place at the community hospital and that a mobile police station was on site to support the investigation and provide a visible presence. Superintendent Sarah Rotherham addressed community concerns, stating: "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. I would ask anyone with concerns to speak to one of our officers or contact their local police station."
The investigation into the precise circumstances surrounding the attack is continuing as authorities work to understand the full sequence of events that led to the violent outburst.
