Security is being ramped up at a major Black Country shopping complex after a 17-year-old was chased and stabbed with a machete in front of horrified Black Friday shoppers.
Chaotic Scene at Shopping Centre
The violent disorder erupted at the Merry Hill centre just after 3:30pm on Friday, November 28. According to reports, a confrontation broke out between two groups, leading to a chase through the busy mall.
The pursuit ended in the Eat Central area, where the teenage victim was attacked with the large blade. The centre was packed with shoppers taking advantage of Black Friday sales, with many witnessing the terrifying event.
Centre Response and Police Investigation
In response to the incident, a spokesperson for Merry Hill confirmed there would be increased security, as well as a heightened police presence, in the centre throughout the weekend.
Jonathan Poole, Centre Manager for Merry Hill, stated: “We are aware of an incident that occurred in the centre yesterday and we are assisting West Midlands Police with its investigation. Customer safety is our number one priority, and we work hard to ensure that Merry Hill remains a safe place to visit.”
The aftermath of the attack caused significant disruption, with visitors reporting being stuck in long queues as they tried to leave the premises. One man described moving only 15 yards in 45 minutes.
Appeal for Witnesses and Footage
Investigators are now urgently appealing to the public for help. Det Ch Insp Lucy Kirwan, of Dudley Police, said: "We know the fear and alarm that this attack has caused, especially as it took place on a busy shopping day. It’s clearly completely unacceptable, and we are working through CCTV and gathering other witness statements as we work to identify all of those involved."
Police are asking anyone who witnessed the event, or who may have captured mobile phone footage of the incident or the disorder leading up to it, to come forward. To offer reassurance to the public, extra officers will be patrolling in and around Merry Hill over the weekend.
