An 18-year-old male has been taken into custody on suspicion of murder after a student was fatally stabbed near De Montfort University in Leicester. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening, shortly after 5pm GMT, when emergency services were alerted to a man collapsing on Oxford Street, close to the intersection with Bonners Lane.
Incident Overview
Upon their arrival, officers found a man in his twenties who had sustained serious injuries. Despite immediate medical attention and transport to Leicester Royal Infirmary, the victim tragically succumbed to his wounds shortly thereafter. Leicestershire Police have indicated that the victim may have been involved in a confrontation with another male prior to the stabbing, who subsequently fled the scene.
Prof Katie Normington, Vice-Chancellor at De Montfort University, expressed her deep sorrow over the incident. “I am devastated by the tragic death of one of our students,” she stated. “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident. We are providing direct support to students, staff, and the victim’s family as we collaborate with the police during this investigation.”
Witness Accounts
Eyewitnesses have recounted the chaotic moments that followed the stabbing. Tye Crofton, a 19-year-old software engineer, described hearing a scream just before witnessing the aftermath of the attack. “I didn’t think much of it at the time,” Crofton noted. “But when I stepped outside, I saw a man lying on the ground, covered with coats and surrounded by a crowd of bystanders.”
According to Crofton, a member of the public began administering CPR to the victim while others appeared to be calling for emergency assistance. “I didn’t really know how to react initially,” Crofton added, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Ongoing Investigation
Detective Inspector Lorna Granville, the senior investigating officer, stated that police are actively working to piece together the events that transpired on the corner of Oxford Street and Bonners Lane. “We are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the area and interviewing potential witnesses to assist with our investigation,” she said. “We are grateful to those who came to the victim’s aid before emergency services arrived and encourage anyone who has not yet spoken to the police to reach out.”
In response to the incident, Leicestershire Police have increased patrols in the vicinity to reassure the community. Several roads, including Infirmary Road, Oxford Street, and Carlton Street, were temporarily closed as investigations continued.
Why it Matters
This tragic event underscores the pressing issue of violence in urban areas, particularly in environments where young people congregate. The impact of such incidents resonates far beyond the immediate tragedy, instilling fear within communities and prompting urgent discussions about safety measures. It is crucial for local authorities and educational institutions to work collaboratively to ensure that students feel secure in their surroundings, fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.
