Two 17-year-old boys have been arrested after a violent assault on a group of teenagers in Hawkwell, near Rochford, which left one young person injured and in hospital.
Emergency services were called to Clements Hall Way shortly before 7pm on Friday 13 June following reports that two suspects had attacked a group of youths. Local witnesses said the incident appeared to stem from an attempted bike theft that escalated when one of the victims refused to hand over his bicycle.
A large emergency response followed, including multiple police cars, an ambulance and a National Police Air Service helicopter which was seen circling the Leigh-on-Sea area during a search for suspects.
One teenager suffered a leg injury and was taken to hospital for treatment. Essex Police have not confirmed the extent of the injury, but it is understood from eyewitnesses that the injury was caused by a knife.
Shortly after the incident, officers arrested two 17-year-old boys – one from London and the other from Leigh-on-Sea – on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. Both remain in custody as the investigation continues.
One local parent, Leoni Choules, whose son witnessed the incident, said: “My son was there with his friend! He is traumatised.”
Chief Inspector David Browning said:
“We’ve got extra officers on patrol in Hawkwell today – please come and speak to us if you have any concerns. Thanks to the quick work of officers last night we have made two arrests, and we continue our investigation into this incident.
“I am sure that news of this assault will be distressing, but I’d like to reassure everyone that we do not believe there is a wider threat to the public. Anyone who believes that they have information about this should contact me and my officers, either by calling 101 or contacting us online, quoting incident 1175 of Friday 13 June.”
Detective Inspector Natalie Chandler added:
“Rapid enquiries, including the support of the National Police Air Service helicopter, have been used to progress this investigation as quickly as possible. The investigation is still ongoing and officers continue to search for a third individual who may be connected to the assault.
The recreational area around Clements Hall, including the skate park, is popular with young people. The incident has left the local community shaken. Increased police patrols are in place throughout the weekend.