A MAN is fighting for his life after he was stabbed in a park in broad daylight.

*UPDATE - A BOY HAS NOW BEEN ARRESTED* 

The 21-year-old man was attacked at around 4pm in People’s Park, Banbury.

He was taken to hospital and is in ‘critical condition’.

Police haven’t made any arrests yet.

The park has been closed since yesterday afternoon and Thames Valley Police currently have a scene watch in place.

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Rob Platt, based at Banbury police station, said: “This incident occurred in the middle of the afternoon, and I am aware that there would have been many witnesses to what has happened.

“I am appealing to anybody who has any information to please contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference number 43220255119, or make a report online.

“For anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“I would like to thank those members of the public who came to the aid of the injured man. “Their actions are greatly appreciated as they provided emergency first aid to the victim before medical professionals arrived.

“I appreciate that this incident has caused concern in the local community, but I would reassure the public that we are investigating the circumstances thoroughly, and although in the early stages of the investigation, are making progress with these enquiries.

“I would ask those who have camera footage of the incident to please not share this online on social media, but instead, please get in touch with Thames Valley Police.

“There will be an increased police presence in the area while this investigation continues, and if you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to speak to any of our officers and staff.

“I would also like to thank the community for their patience and understanding while we investigate this incident.

“The park is currently closed, but we will look to re-open it as soon as we can.

“Anybody who has been affected by this incident can seek support by visiting the police support services website https://www.police.uk/pu/support-services/”

Anybody who has any information should contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference number 43220255119, or make a report online.

-

Read more from this author

This story was written by Rebecca Whittaker, she joined the team in 2019 as a multimedia reporter.

Rebecca covers education and news in Abingdon and Wantage.

Get in touch with her by emailing: Rebecca.Whittaker@newquest.co.uk or calling 07824524333

Follow her on Twitter @RebecWhitt

A message from our Editor

Thank you for reading this story and supporting the Oxford Mail.

If you like what we do please consider getting a subscription for the Oxford Mail and in return we’ll give you unrestricted access with less adverts across our website from the latest news, investigations, features, and sport.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tik Tok for more. 

You can also join the conversation in our Facebook groups: stay ahead of traffic alerts here, keep up to date with the latest from court here, share your favourite memories of Oxford here, get your daily dose of celebrity news here and take some time out with news that will make you smile. 

If you’ve got a story for our reporters, send us your news here. You can also list an event for free here.