Six people required medical treatment following a violent incident at a community hospital in Merseyside, after a man allegedly became agitated when refused an appointment.
Details of the Hospital Incident
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 grown “increasingly agitated” after his request for an appointment was declined.
The situation escalated, with the man alleged to have damaged a reception counter before assaulting several people, who are believed to include hospital staff. A metal bar was used during the incident and was later recovered by police for forensic examination.
Injuries and Police Response
A police spokesman confirmed that six individuals 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.
A 20-year-old man from Newton-le-Willows, originally from Afghanistan, was arrested at the scene. He was taken into custody on suspicion of six counts of wounding, affray, and criminal damage. Following assessment, he was detained under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act.
Community Reaction 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 services, 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.”
On Wednesday, a police scene remained in place at the community 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.”
Police have urged anyone with concerns to speak to an officer or contact their local station directly as investigations continue.
