‘We are keeping an open mind as to the motivation behind this incident’ – Acting Chief Superintendent Richard Woolley of Kent Police …
Gillingham residents will continue to notice an increased police presence in the town following the serious assault of a soldier in uniform on Tuesday 23 July 2024.
Officers were called to Sally Port Gardens at around 5.55pm on Tuesday 23 July to a report that the victim, a man in his 40s, had suffered injuries consistent with stab wounds. He was taken to a hospital for treatment and his condition is currently described as serious but stable.
The suspect, a 24-year-old local man, is reported to have left the scene on a motorcycle and at approximately 6.30pm was located and arrested in Mooring Road, Rochester. He remains in custody pending further enquiries.
Cordons have been set up at both the scene of the incident and the scene of the arrest, and a number of knives have been seized from both locations.
Acting Chief Superintendent Richard Woolley of Kent Police said:
‘We are keeping an open mind as to the motivation behind this incident and we are exploring a number of lines of enquiry – these include the possibility this incident was mental health-related as well as any links the suspect may have with the location of the assault. The investigation has been supported throughout by Counter Terrorism Policing South East as we work to establish the full circumstances.
‘Kent Police officers will continue to be on patrol in the area to offer reassurance to members of the public and are more than happy to speak with anyone who is upset or concerned about what has happened.
‘It remains the case that we do not currently believe anyone else was involved and there is no further information at this time to suggest any wider threats to the local community, including members of the armed forces.
‘Our thoughts remain with the victim, his family and those who witnessed the incident at this difficult time.’