Man stabbed in Watford

Detectives in Watford CID have started an investigation and are seeking witnesses and information, after a reported stabbing in the district.

Police were called at 8.29pm yesterday evening (Sunday 12 October) to reports of a stabbing near to an address on Franklin Avenue.

A 34-year-old man was found with two suspected stab wounds on his neck and another suspected stab wound under his arm.

Paramedics from the East of England Ambulance Service attended and he was taken hospital by the Herts and Essex Air Ambulance Service, where he remains in a critical condition.

A scene guard remains in place on Franklin Road today (Monday 13 October), to allow further forensic investigation to be carried out.

Detective Inspector Chris Parperi, of Watford CID, said: “I am appealing to anyone who may have either witnessed an incident near to Faraday Court on Franklin Avenue or may have been walking or driving in the area between 8pm and 8.30pm last night (Sunday).

“We have launched an investigation and we would ask anyone with information to contact police via the usual channels, quoting Operation Oolite.

“At this early stage in our enquiries, detectives are working to establish the exact circumstances, but we are treating this as an isolated incident involving people we believe are known to one another.

“I understand that news of this incident will be concerning to the public, and we would like to reassure residents that there is a heightened police presence in the area as enquiries continue, so please do not hesitate to speak to an officer at the scene if you have any concerns.

“We have also linked in with our partners, including Herts County Council and Watford Borough Council, to ensure they are fully briefed.”

You can report information online, speak to an operator in the Force Communications Room via the online web chat, or call the non-emergency number 101, quoting Op Oolite.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via its untraceable online form

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