A man is in custody following an attempted murder and kidnapping – two incidents which police believe to be linked. At around 2.15pm yesterday (Tuesday, January 7), a 17-year-old boy was forced into a blue vehicle in Terminus Street, Harlow.
Around two hours later – at approximately 4.20pm – Essex Police were called by paramedics to reports of a man in his 30s with life-threatening injuries in Staple Tye Shopping Centre. The man was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital where he remains in a serious condition.
The victim’s injuries are no longer believed to be life-threatening. A 19-year-old man from Harlow in Chatham, Kent, was arrested in the early hours of this morning (Wednesday, January 8) on suspicion of kidnap and attempted murder.
He remains in custody.
‘No wider threat to the public’
Sergeant Simon Roissetter said: “Officers are working around the clock on this case to ensure no stone is left unturned. I’d like to reassure those in Harlow that we do not believe there is any wider threat to the public and that officers will be visible in the Staple Tye area throughout the day while we carry out further enquiries.
“If you see our officers and believe you have any information relating to these incidents – in particular if you have any details or dashcam footage relating to the blue vehicle – please get in touch.”
If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.
Sign up to our London Court & Crime newsletter for the latest major court updates and breaking news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up HERE