Four boys aged 13 to 16 arrested after 13-year-old stabbed in Manchester, United Kingdom

Police in Manchester, England, were called at about 7pm on Tuesday, October 27, after reports of a stabbing on Withy Grove in the city centre, outside the Arndale shopping centre. Greater Manchester Police said officers were called to reports of a stabbing on Market Street, outside the Arndale on Withy Grove. Report 1 said officers swarmed the Arndale that evening.

A 13-year-old boy was found with injuries consistent with knife wounds and was taken to hospital from the scene. Police said his injuries are potentially life-changing. One report said he remains in a stable condition. The other said he remains in hospital.

Three boys, aged 14, 15 and 16, were arrested on suspicion of affray. Report 1 said a fourth boy, aged 13, was arrested on suspicion of possession of a bladed article. Report 2 said the same arrest.

The two reports differ on the status of the three older boys. An update issued on October 29, as reported by Manchester Evening News, said police had since released three of the boys on bail. Leigh Journal reported that the three boys, aged 14, 15 and 16, remained in custody for questioning. Neither report gives a charge, plea, or court appearance for any of the boys.

Greater Manchester Police said enquiries are continuing and there is an increased police presence in the area. Police said other recent city centre incidents are not thought to be linked to this stabbing.

Police are asking anyone with information, witnesses, or CCTV or mobile phone footage to come forward. Members of the public are urged to contact police quoting log 3058 of 28 October (Leigh Journal). The injured boy is protected by law and care, as the Bible calls the powerful to defend the weak (Proverbs 31:8-9).