7:00pm Friday 3rd July 2009
By Gina Marden
DETECTIVES have pleaded with residents who filmed a stabbing on their mobile phones to come forward with their vital evidence.
The Echo told earlier this week how a 45-year-old man was knifed in the chest, following a row over a bike in Gower Chase.
The dad-of-three was flown by air ambulance to Whitechapel’s Royal London Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery.
He was in a critical condition, but has since left hospital and is staying with relatives.
Meanwhile, the hunt is on for the knifeman, and investigating officer Det Con Lee Drury is particularly keen to talk to witnesses who may have vital video footage.
He said: “We are aware people were filming parts of this incident on mobile phones.
“We aren’t looking to prosecute anyone who did film the attack or its aftermath, we are looking for their help.
“It could be while they may think they didn’t capture anything significant, they may have actually filmed something vital to our investigation and help us to apprehend this violent suspect.”
Officers stormed a house in nearby Bostocke Close following the attack, at about 4.30pm on Monday, but did not arrest anyone. Police believe the victim knows the attacker.
Yesterday, officers carried out more house-to-house inquiries, and delivered letters asking witnesses to contact detectives.
Det Con Drury added: “We are still keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the attack or may have information about where the suspect is. He nearly cost this man his life, and needs to be taken off the streets.”
The knifeman was white, 6ft tall, and had short, dark hair which is receding at the front. He is stocky and has tattoos on his upper body and neck.
Call detectives at Basildon on 0300 3334444, ext 40446.
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