Man sitting in car stabbed by masked gang in Westcliff

A man was left with serious injuries after he was stabbed by a group of masked men while sitting in his car in Westcliff.

Essex Police has launched a major investigation following the violent attack, which happened in Westborough Road at around 10.30pm on Friday, 17 July.

Officers say the victim was approached by a group of men wearing balaclavas and dark clothing before being assaulted.

The man suffered a stab wound as well as a laceration to his arm. He was taken to hospital in a serious condition, but police have confirmed his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

Detectives are now carrying out what they describe as a fast-moving investigation and are following several targeted lines of enquiry as they work to identify those responsible.

Detective Sergeant Kathrine Binks said: “This is a fast-moving investigation, and we are working to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this incident. We are following several targeted lines of enquiry but would like to speak to anyone who saw or heard anything before or after the incident.

“We understand this incident will be concerning to the local community, we are working to locate those responsible. Please come and speak to local officers if you have any concerns.”

Police are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time, or who may have captured CCTV, dash cam or doorbell footage before or after the assault.

Anyone with information about the attack is urged to contact Essex Police, quoting incident 1717 of 17 July. Reports can be made through the force’s online reporting service or Live Chat, available 24 hours a day, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The incident has sparked concern among local residents.

Sherry Fuller said: “I was sitting in my car nearby when I suddenly found myself in the midst of loads of police cars. Hope the guy recovers.”

Amy Heathcoate added: “This is massively concerning. Local residents need to be careful and wary of their surroundings.”

Kelly O’Connor said tougher action is needed to tackle knife crime. She said: “What is going to happen to prevent this or stop this? Any knife crime deserves to be treated serious. The current punishments are laughable!”

Knife crime remains a major priority for Essex Police and partner organisations. While incidents still occur across the county, recent figures suggest sustained progress is being made.

Essex Police recorded 1,444 knife-enabled crime incidents in the year to March 2025, however the county has seen knife crime fall by more than 25% since 2019, alongside a reduction of more than 50% in hospital admissions for knife-related injuries among young people.

Police say this has been achieved through a combination of enforcement, stop and search, knife surrender bins and preventative education programmes, although they stress that even one knife crime is one too many.