Armed police rush to Southend city centre after man hit by car and stabbed

Armed police were deployed to Southend city centre in the early hours of this morning after a violent incident left a man with “potentially life-changing” injuries.

Essex Police say the attack happened between 1am and 2am, following reports of a knife fight involving two groups of people.

The violence is believed to have started with a disturbance at around 1am in London Road, just off the High Street near several restaurants.

Witnesses later reported seeing two groups fighting in Chichester Road at around 2am, with some individuals believed to be carrying knives.

The area around Warrior Square would still have been busy at the time, with Popworld open until 3am and a number of late-night takeaway shops operating along Southchurch Road.

An armed response unit attended the scene and found a man suffering from serious stab wounds. Police say their investigation indicates the victim had also been struck by a vehicle during the incident.

He remains in hospital with injuries described by officers as “potentially life-changing”.

Arrests made and vehicles tracked

Following the attack, two suspects fled the scene in a vehicle.

With assistance from Southend City Council CCTV operators, officers were able to quickly identify the vehicle, which was later located at Southend Hospital.

A second vehicle believed to be involved was then stopped by police on the M25 in Hertfordshire.

Four people – three men and one woman – have been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm. One of the men remains in hospital receiving treatment.

The police response

Detectives say the investigation is ongoing, with neighbourhood officers and forensic teams working to establish exactly what happened and why.

Chief Superintendent Chris Bradford said:
“I understand how concerning this incident will be to the local community today.

“I want to reassure you that officers have made quick arrests and we believe that those involved are known to each other.

“You will see an increased policing presence in the area and I encourage you to come and talk to us. I would also ask anyone who has information, CCTV or dashcam footage to contact us.

“This investigation is in its early stages, but this type of violent behaviour has no place in Southend and we will not tolerate it.”

Community reaction

Local residents have expressed shock at the violence.

One person who wished not to be named said:
“I live on this street and the crime is never ending, it’s always something happening.”

However, others have a different view. Mark Pock said:
“Things like this are still very rare – we had plenty of incidents like this in the 90s”

Meanwhile, Karen Osborne praised the speed of the police response:
“Excellent swift work by Essex Police.”

Police appeal for information

Police are urging anyone who may have seen what happened, or who has CCTV or dashcam footage, to come forward quoting incident number 42/51345/26.

Reports can be made via the Essex Police website or through their 24-hour Live Chat service. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously.

Photos by Alfie Harris.