KENT, ENGLAND – A grim assault in Gillingham, Kent, on a soldier in his 40s results in a 24-year-old suspect’s arrest, as he is held under suspicion of attempted murder. The assault occurred in Sally Port Gardens on Tuesday around 5:55 p.m., with the crime scene situated close to Brompton Barracks, the British Army’s 1 Royal School of Military Engineering Regiment base.
The victim was airlifted to a hospital for emergency treatment after suffering severe stab wounds. The British army expressed sympathy for the gravely wounded soldier and the trauma his family is experiencing. They urged respect for their privacy during their difficult time and pledged support to the Kent police as they work to piece together the circumstances of the crime.
While there was initial concern that the assault could potentially be linked to terrorism, investigators have retained control of the case, which is being closely monitored by counter-terror specialists from the Counter Terrorism Policing South East. Presently, detectives are investigating the suspect’s mental health history.
An eyewitness to the assault described attempts at providing first aid while awaiting the arrival of the police, stating that the army officer had wounds all over his body and blood was everywhere. Prime Minister Keir Starmer also expressed shock at the act of violence, offering his well-wishes to the victim for a quick recovery.