British soldier fighting for life after being 'stabbed in frenzied attack outside barracks' - as man, 24, arrested

24 July 2024, 00:12 | Updated: 24 July 2024, 08:19

• Do you know what happened? Email crime@lbc.co.uk

By Kieran Kelly

@kellyjourno

A British soldier is fighting for his life after being stabbed just metres from an army barracks.

The soldier, in his 40s, was found seriously injured just metres away from Brompton Barracks in Chatham, Kent, on Tuesday evening.

A witness claims to have seen the frenzied attacker jump off his moped - wearing a ski mask - and rush towards the soldier, who was in uniform, MailOnline reports.

The serviceman managed to get away but was chased down and attacked once more by the assailant who was brandishing two kitchen knifes, the witness added.

Allegedly, the knifeman held up one of the bloodied weapons and licked it in front of locals who had rushed out of their homes to help the soldier, the witness also told the MailOnline.

The soldier reportedly suffered injuries to his face and body and was airlifted to hospital, The Sun reports.

A 24-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

• Do you know what happened? Email crime@lbc.co.uk

The Defence Secretary, John Healey, said on Wednesday morning: "Shocking to hear of an attack on a soldier in Kent.

"My thoughts are with the soldier and his family, who deserve privacy at this difficult time.

"On behalf of the Government, I wish him a swift recovery."

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence said: “We are aware of an emerging incident in the Chatham area which may have involved a soldier.

“As the circumstances are currently under investigation by Kent Police, we cannot comment further.”

A spokesperson for Kent Police said “Kent Police was called at around 5.55pm on Tuesday 23 July 2024 to a report of a serious assault in Sally Port Gardens, Gillingham.

“A man in his 40s suffered injuries consistent with stab wounds and was taken to hospital for treatment. His condition is currently described as serious.

“Officers attended and at around 6.20pm they arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder.

“A cordon is currently in place around the scene of the incident and enquiries to establish the circumstances are ongoing.

“Residents are advised to expect an ongoing police presence in the area.”

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