Manchester stabbing: Police officer injured in knife attack says 'instinct took over'

Police say 25-year-old suspect has been detained at secure medical facility and investigation may take months

A police officer who was stabbed in a suspected terror attack has said “instinct took over” when he risked his life to tackle the suspect.

Sgt Lee Valentine and three other British Transport Police (BTP) officers prevented more victims being attacked after a couple were stabbed at Manchester Victoria railway station on New Year’s Eve.

“We had no idea what we were running towards when we heard the screams on New Year’s Eve,” he said.

“When we saw the man wielding a knife, instinct took over and we were able to, in company with travel safe officers from Metrolink, successfully detain the male.”

Sgt Valentine, who is recovering at home after suffering a stab wound to his shoulder, said the past 48 hours had been “overwhelming” and added: “My team and I are grateful to everyone who sent in messages of support – it really does mean the world to us.”

Officers had been on patrol at the station, near Manchester Arena, when they confronted the attacker with Tasers and pepper spray.

BTP chief constable Paul Crowther said the incident showed policing at its finest and “at its most dangerous”.

“This horrific incident underlines the bravery of our officers, who selflessly ran towards danger to help keep the public safe,” he added.

“As the first officers on the scene, their quick-thinking and outstanding response helped to prevent more passengers being hurt and stands as a testament to the force.”

After meeting Sgt Valentine and his colleagues, Mr Crowther said he was “humbled and full of admiration at their tenacity and dedication”.

A couple, aged in their 50s, suffered multiple stab wounds that are serious but not life-threatening.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said the man had “made good progress” and was expected to be discharged from hospital over the coming days.

His partner is also making progress but is expected to be in hospital for longer, a spokesperson said.

The suspect, a 25-year-old man from the Cheetham Hill area of Manchester, has been detained under the Mental Health Act and is being held at a secure medical facility.

Police have concluded searches of his home but suggested the investigation may take several months.

GMP did not give any details of the man’s motivation, after he was filmed shouting “long live the caliphate” and “Allahu akbar”. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

“The investigation has moved at a very fast pace and detectives are increasingly confident that the man acted alone in the final stages of the attack,” a spokesperson said.

“The investigation will continue and will examine if anybody may have encouraged or assisted the man to commit the attack.

“In the coming months, whilst the man is detained and being assessed under the Mental Health Act, the investigation will carry on as usual searching for evidence and investigators will be consulting with medical specialists and the Crown Prosecution Service in relation to any potential criminal prosecution.”

The man may be detained for up to six months before the “section” has to be renewed.

A statement from the suspect’s family urged the public to avoid “any assumptions, speculations and generalisations” while the investigation continues.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with those who were seriously injured, their families and friends,” it added.

“We are also eternally grateful for the swift response from the emergency services and the comfort given to those affected by fellow Mancunians and citizens.

“The GMP have informed us that our family member is currently detained under the Mental Health Act and is being treated by specialist medical staff.

“We are acutely aware that many, including within the media, may well have many questions to ask us.

“However, we have been informed by the GMP that there is an active, ongoing terrorist investigation and as such we are limited in what we can say at this stage.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is asked to call police on 0161 856 3400. Anyone with footage is asked to send it to FIB@gmp.police.uk.