Five people have been injured following a serious incident at a community hospital in Merseyside, with a man in his twenties now in police custody.
Attack with metal bar reported
The disturbance occurred at Newton Community Hospital in Newton-le-Willows on the afternoon of Tuesday, 30 December. According to reports from the Manchester Evening News, a man was seen attacking both staff and patients with a metal bar shortly after 12pm.
Local authorities responded swiftly to the scene. St Helens Police confirmed they were dealing with the incident and announced that a man had been arrested. In a social media update posted just after 3pm, they stated: "A 20-year-old man has been arrested in #Newton-Le-Willows after reports five people were assaulted at Newton Community Hospital this afternoon."
Victims safe and contacting families
Councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron provided reassurance about the condition of those hurt. Writing on his Facebook page, he confirmed that around five people had been injured but emphasised that all were now "OK and safe and are able to contact their families."
He urged the public to avoid speculation on social media and to stay away from the area as police maintained a cordon around the scene. Cllr Gomez-Aspron also extended his gratitude to Merseyside Police and the North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust for their rapid and professional response.
Police investigation ongoing
Officers remain at the hospital as the investigation continues. Police have appealed for any witnesses or individuals with information about the assault to come forward, asking them to contact @MerPolCC via direct message.
The incident has caused significant concern in the local community. Newton Community Hospital provides vital local health services, and an attack within its premises is deeply unsettling. The focus now is on supporting the injured victims and understanding the full circumstances that led to the violent disorder.
