Man, 30s, arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after ‘brutal’ Belfast knife attack that seriously injured victim

A MAN, 30s, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a “brutal” knife attack in Belfast yesterday evening.

The victim, a man in his 40s, remains in hospital in a serious condition with “significant” injuries to his face, neck and back.

The attack took place in the Kinnaird area of north Belfast just after 10.30pm.

Cops rushed to the scene in minutes, and the PSNI has commended the bravery of several members of the public who helped save the victim from further attack.

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said: “Their willingness to step forward to help another person shows incredible bravery and community spirit.”

The scene remained cordoned off by the PSNI this morning and officers are expected to remain in the area as enquiries continue.

Henderson said the police have declared a critical incident and described the assault as “deeply concerning”.

An investigation has been launched to establish a motive.

In a statement, Henderson said: “This brutal attack will have sent shockwaves through the community causing real concern.

“I want to reassure the local community that we are treating this attack with the utmost seriousness.”

He urged the public not to share footage of the attack circulating online, saying that this would only add “further trauma” to the victim’s loved ones.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam or CCTV footage has been urged to contact police.

Local DUP councillor Jordan Doran said he was “left shocked and deeply concerned” by footage circulating online following the stabbing.

He said: “Many residents have contacted me expressing concerns about community safety and seeking reassurance following this incident.

“Those concerns are entirely understandable. People deserve to feel safe in their homes and communities, regardless of where they live.

“The public will rightly expect a swift, thorough and robust investigation by the PSNI.

“Anyone found responsible for criminal acts of this nature must face the full consequences of the law.

“There can be no excuses and no tolerance for such brutality on our streets.

“What is beyond dispute is that violence of this nature has no place in North Belfast.

“I will be engaging with the PSNI and relevant agencies as a matter of urgency to ensure residents receive the information and reassurance they deserve.”

Jonathan Buckley, DUP MLA for Upper Bann, called for calm after the attack, adding that his thoughts are with the victim.

He said: “I urge calm in what is clearly a tense situation. We need answers.”