Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Thursday 13th March 2025, at 07:15hrs|Updated at 16:00hrs on Thursday 13th March 2025.
A man in his 30s arrested on suspicion of attempted murder has been detained under the Mental Health Act confirm Lancashire Police. Following the barbaric attack on a dog walker (a man in his 60s).
The suspect allegedly targeted a man in his 60s, who was walking his dog on Langden Drive, close to two schools and a medical centre, just after 6 a.m. on Wednesday.
The suspect, described as looking possessed, intent on causing serious harm, allegedly launched a “savage and brutal” attack on the dog walker, leaving him with significant injuries.
Witnesses described the attack as “barbaric,” “savage,”and totally “unprovoked” leaving the victim “unrecognisable” after the assault.
Following the attack on the dog walker, the suspect also allegedly assaulted a heroic woman who had intervened. She recieved minor injuries.
Emergency services arrived at the scene and officers deployed a taser to subdue the suspect. Although initially brought to the ground, the man reportedly regained his footing and was ultimately detained after a second taser deployment and assistance from members of the public.
The dog walker a local man was taken to hospital, where he remains in a “very poorly condition.”
Residents have expressed shock, fear, and anger over the unprovoked and random nature of the attack. One resident, speaking anonymously, said,
“This is shocking. We live in a very scary world these days, and it seems to be getting worse. You hear about these things happening around the country, but you never expect it to happen on your doorstep. It just goes to show that it can happen anywhere. It could have been me walking my dog, it could have been you. It’s just shocking, and it needs to stop. Nobody is safe walking the streets on their own in this day and age. “I just hope the poor man pulls through this and I send my prayers to his family.”
Lancashire Police have reassured residents that patrols have been increased in the area and that officers are available to address any concerns. The force is continuing its investigation into the incident.
The incident has reignited concerns about violence on Britain’s streets and the perceived inadequacy of the justice system in delivering appropriate sentencing for serious offences.
Det Insp James Weatherby, of Preston CID, said earlier:” This assault has left a man with some very significant injuries, and he remains in a poorly condition in hospital.
“While we have made an arrest our enquiries are still at a very early stage. I would appeal to anyone who has any information or footage which could help us piece together exactly what has happened to get in touch.”
Police are appealing for anyone with any footage to come forward. If you have any information you can call police quoting log 0181 of Wednesday (12th March).
The cordon has now been lifted, and roads fully reopened.
G2K INCIDENT WATCH 