Hitchin’s top cop moved swiftly this week to dispel fears of further knife crime in the town in the wake of Tuesday’s town centre stabbing attack.
North Herts Chief Insp Julie Wheatley reassured the community that they should not be alarmed.
The Bancroft wounding, described as a targeted attack by investigators, happened just before 11.45am on Tuesday morning outside milkshake chain Make A Shake and neighbouring barbers Look Sharp.
The busy road was closed to all traffic until later that afternoon while a police forensics team carried out investigations.
One eyewitness told the Comet: “The pavement was blood splattered outside Make A Shake.
“The blood looked like it came from a wound that was dripping.
“There were police everywhere, with the road cordoned off – and at least three squad cars and an ambulance turned up pretty quickly.”
Another eyewitness added soon after the incident: “There was what appeared to be a flick knife near the blood. I’m still shaking now.
“You don’t expect people to be stabbed in broad daylight in Hitchin.”
Chief Insp Wheatley said yesterday: “This was a highly unusual incident in which we believe the two parties were known to each other.
“At no time were any other members of the public in danger, and a suspect was quickly detained following quick work by my officers.
“I fully understand those who witnessed the incident and the wider community may have been concerned by the events.
“But I would like to reassure the community this type of incident is not a common occurrence in Hitchin, and you should feel safe and confident to go about your daily business.”
Police continue to investigate, with a spokesman confirming they will be utilising all CCTV footage available.
The victim, a man in his 20s, needed treatment for head wounds but has been released from hospital.
Brandon Harris-Ross, of no fixed abode, has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm by wounding and possession of an offensive weapon. The 18-year-old has since been remanded in custody.
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