'I thought this was a safe area': Neighbours' shock after major crime scene put in place

Neighbours in Whalley Range have spoken of their shock after a man was knifed in a 'nasty' attack in Whalley Range. Police were called to Withington Road at around 8pm on Sunday (May 5) , before finding a man with stab wounds.

He was taken to hospital, where his injuries were not deemed life-threatening. Greater Manchester Police said officers are 'determined to find the person responsible'. No arrests have been made.

A cordon remained in place today (Bank Holiday Monday) at the Bowling Green Court flats. Crime scene investigation specialists were seen trawling for clues and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent.

READ MORE: Whalley Range investigation underway after man stabbed at block at flats

One person said they didn't hear the attack over the sound of children playing, but saw blood on the floor after stepping out of their home. He said people had been left 'shocked', and that neighbours were relatively 'close-knit'.

Another person said their phone rang numerous times as concerned friends and family checked they were okay having seen the news.

Tony Sheppard, 58, who lives opposite, said he returning from an evening out when he saw fire engines and an ambulance.

"I have lived here for years and it is actually very quiet, it's a real shock that something like this has happened," he told the Manchester Evening News.

He added: "I hope they catch the guy who did it. Crimes like this have to have consequences."

Leslie Loram, 69, a long-time resident of Whalley Range, said: "You wouldn't expect it in this area - at all. But, having said that, knife crime in general is rising and I just do not understand it. It's unnerving. Let's hope they catch him."

Liam Campbell, 82, said: "It has changed a whole lot over the years, its nowhere near as bad as it used to be." Ted Hicks, 27, said: "It's alarming, I have always felt quite safe here. I hope the guy is okay.

"But of course, it is a city, and of course there is crime here. I am sure you could go to any street and there would have been a stabbing at some point."

Anna, who did not want to give her full name, said: "I thought this was a safe area, so it is surprising that something like that happened around here. Just around the corner it's all tree-lined streets."

Detective Inspector Leanne Gibb said: "Our officers are hard at work at the scene establishing the full circumstances surrounding this incident. This was a nasty attack and we are determined to apprehend the person responsible.

"I want to reassure the local community that we believe this to have been an isolated incident and here is no wider risk to the public. We have deployed officers to the scene to assist with enquiries and if you have any concerns I would urge you to speak to them.

"We are also appealing for any information or footage - including mobile, CCTV or dashcam. You can make a report to police by calling 0161 856 6051 or 101 quoting incident number 3139 of 5/5/24."

Patrols have been stepped up in the area following the incident, though there is not believed to be any risk to members of the public following the 'isolated attack'.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: "Shortly before 10.30pm yesterday (Sunday, 5 May), two fire engines from Moss Side and Salford fire stations were called to attend an incident on Withington Road, Manchester.

"Crews arrived quickly and assisted Greater Manchester Police at the scene before departing after approximately one hour and 30 minutes in attendance."