Man Injured in Axe Attack as Police Seal Off Bootle Strand

A significant police presence was seen at the Bootle Strand Shopping Centre tonight, Thursday 22nd January, following a serious assault in the area.

Emergency services were called to Stanley Road at approximately 5.45pm after reports that a man had been attacked and suffered injuries to his head and face caused by a bladed weapon, described as an axe. The injured man was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital for further assessment. His condition has not been confirmed.

Witnesses described a distressing scene, with paramedics providing urgent care as police secured the area. It is understood the assault is believed to have taken place near a bingo hall on Stanley Road, with the victim later making his way towards the shopping centre where emergency crews attended.

A large cordon was put in place covering part of Stanley Road and the entrance to the shopping centre, affecting several nearby shops and restaurants. Officers remained on site for several hours while enquiries were carried out.

Forensic officers were seen examining a bench and a nearby bin within the cordoned area, where what appeared to be blood was visible on the ground. Photographs were taken and evidence bags were used as part of the investigation. An officer remained guarding the cordon.

People working nearby reported seeing emergency vehicles arrive and hearing accounts from members of the public that a man had been struck on the head. Some witnesses suggested the weapon may have been discarded nearby, although this has not been confirmed by police.

Police Statement:

Merseyside Police said:

“We can confirm that emergency services are in Bootle following an assault tonight, Thursday 22 January.”

“At around 5.45pm, officers were called to Stanley Road to reports of a man being assaulted, and sustaining lacerations to his head and face, caused by a bladed weapon. The victim has been taken to hospital for assessment and enquiries are ongoing to trace the offenders.”

“House to house, forensic and CCTV work is taking place tonight in the area and we would ask anyone with information to come forward.”

Detective Inspector Sara Lang added: “These are the early stages of our investigation and it is paramount that we speak to anyone who saw or has since heard anything about this assault as we look to establish the circumstances and find those responsible.”

“A large cordon will be in place close to the bingo hall on Stanley Road, where we believe that the assault happened. Avoid the area where possible while we carry out this work.”

How to report information

Anyone with information is asked to contact Merseyside Police on 101, quoting reference number 720.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.