Churchgoer stabbed outside Easter service 'by fellow congregation member'

10 April 2023 , 06:39

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Police have arrested a 20-year-old man after a worshipper was stabbed in Nottinghamshire (Image: Olimpia Zagnat/NottinghamshireLive)

Police have arrested a 20-year-old man after a worshipper was stabbed outside a church after an Easter Sunday service.

The victim was allegedly followed outside the ceremony at St Stephen's Church in Sneiton, Nottinghamshire, and then stabbed in the abdomen.

He was rushed to hospital for surgery and his injuries are not believed to be life threatening.

Police raced to the scene at around 10.50am and arrested the alleged attacker on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. He remains in police custody.

The suspect is claimed to have been a fellow member of the congregation who had visited around two or three times before, while the victim is reportedly a regular member.

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The incident took place outside St Stephen's Church in Sneiton

One church source told The Telegraph: “Obviously the Church and everyone there is very upset."

Another said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved.

"Churches do not want this to be happening at any time, least of all on Easter Sunday."

In a Facebook post yesterday, the church wrote: "Dear friends, after a wonderful Easter service today very sadly a member of our congregation was attacked. He is currently in hospital.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this terribly challenging situation."

Nottinghamshire Police does not currently believe the attack was a hate crime and assured there is no wider threat to the community.

The suspect is claimed to have been a fellow member of the congregation (Google Maps)

DCI Mark Dickson said: "Officers were called to Dale Street, Sneinton on April 9 following reports of a serious assault.

"Police arrested a 20-year-old man shortly after the incident on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and he remains in custody.

"An investigation has since been launched to establish what happened and, despite the large police presence in the area, I’d like to reassure the public that there is no wider threat to the community."

Anyone with information regarding the attack is urged to contact the force on 101.

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Those who wish to make an anonymous report can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Katie Weston