Man stabbed after 'row with girl in clown mask'

Witnesses claim argument erupts as child walks home from Halloween party

The incident happened outside Edgbaston House in Portsmouth (PA)

A man has been stabbed after an alleged confrontation with a young girl wearing a clown mask.

Witnesses claim an argument erupted after a mother and her child were walking home from a Halloween party in Portsmouth on Thursday evening.

A 28-year-old man allegedly assaulted the girl, forcing the mother and daughter to run away. The mother then reportedly returned with two men who apparently stabbed the victim.

The man was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries but has subsequently been discharged.

Four people have been arrested in relation to the attack. The 34-year-old woman, two 18-year-old men and a 17-year-old boy are all currently being held in police custody.

Detective Inspector Linda Howard said: “It has been reported in the media that this incident was sparked by an earlier altercation involving a child wearing a clown mask.

“This is one of the lines of enquiry being followed. But at this time we would ask people not to speculate further and instead contact the investigation team if you have any information about what happened.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44160406459, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.