26-year-old man arrested following attack on two Greater Manchester Police officers with a knife in Old Trafford

Greater Manchester Police have arrested a 26-year-old man after two police officers were assaulted with a knife following a police pursuit on Wood Road in Old Trafford this evening (Wednesday 26 July 2023).

At around 4pm today (Wednesday 26 July 2023), police became aware of a moped driving erratically and attempted to stop the vehicle which made off.

A short time later, the moped was located near the junction of Wood Road and Upper Chorlton Road in South Manchester, having been involved in a road traffic collision.

An 18-year-old was detained at the scene on suspicion of dangerous driving.

Whilst the two officers were responding to this incident, another male, who is at this time being treated as possibly unconnected to collision, is reported to have approached the officers and assaulted them with a knife. 

The 26-year-old man was subsequently arrested in connection with this assault. During the arrest, the two officers deployed a taser to maintain the safety of all involved.

As is standard procedure, the man was taken to hospital to ensure his welfare prior to being taken into custody.

Superintendent Cara Charlesworth said: "This was a serious assault on two officers who were simply doing their jobs and trying to keep members of the public safe. 

"Thankfully the injuries inflicted on our officers are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing and I commend them for their bravery in bringing the incident to a swift and safe conclusion without risk to the public. One has required hospital treatment and we wish him a speedy recovery.

"I can assure you that we are treating this incident with due severity and whilst I am pleased we have a man in custody, this investigation is in its early days and we are working hard to understand the full circumstances.

"I urge anyone with information about this incident that could assist our investigation to please contact police as soon as possible. This includes if you were in the area at the time and have any footage - including mobile, CCTV or dashcam.

“Anyone with any information should contact police on 0161 856 7621 quoting incident number 2401 of 26/07/2023.

“Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”