Six people required hospital treatment following a violent assault by a man armed with a metal bar at a community hospital in Merseyside.
Violent Outburst After Appointment Refusal
The incident unfolded at Newton Community Hospital in Newton-le-Willows on Tuesday, shortly after midday. According to Merseyside Police, a man became "increasingly agitated" after his request for a hospital appointment was refused.
The situation escalated rapidly, with the individual allegedly damaging a reception counter before assaulting several people, believed to include hospital staff members. The weapon used, a metal bar, was recovered by officers for forensic examination.
Casualties and Police Response
A police spokesman confirmed that six people needed treatment for injuries sustained in the attack. The injuries included:
- Head lacerations
- Injuries to arms and hands
- Bruising
All victims were reported to be in a stable condition, receiving care at the hospital and local walk-in centres.
Officers arrested a 20-year-old man from Newton-le-Willows, originally from Afghanistan, on suspicion of six counts of wounding, affray, and criminal damage. He was taken to a police station and later detained under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act.
Community Shock and Ongoing Presence
Local councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron, whose father lives next to the hospital, said he heard reports of someone attacking staff and damaging the reception. He praised the emergency response, stating: "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 added that the event was a "shock" to the community, urging people to await the full facts without speculation.
On Wednesday, a police scene remained in place at the hospital, with a mobile police station deployed on site to reassure the public. 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."
She encouraged anyone with concerns to speak to an officer or contact their local police station directly.
