In a distressing scene captured by a doorbell camera, a British soldier was brutally attacked in broad daylight on Tuesday evening in Gillingham, Kent.
The assault, which lasted just 20 seconds, was carried out with a 10-inch knife.
The police, however, do not believe this was an act of terrorism.
Instead, they are exploring whether mental health issues might have played a role.
The victim, a man in his 40s, was attacked around 6 p.m. near Brompton Barracks.
Witnesses reported that the assailant, wearing a ski mask and a NASA bomber jacket, arrived on a moped and attacked the soldier with two large kitchen knives.
The assault was so intense that it filled the quiet evening with “blood-curdling screams.”
Despite his injuries, the soldier tried to stagger back to his home but was attacked again until his wife intervened.
Thankfully, she was unharmed and managed to get help.
Police Response and Arrest
Police responded swiftly, arresting a 24-year-old local man within 30 minutes of the attack.
Several knives were recovered, and the soldier was airlifted to a hospital where he remains in serious but stable condition.
Authorities have stated that terrorism is not a likely motive and are considering mental health issues as a possible factor.
They are also investigating any links between the location and the suspect.
Reactions and Community Impact
The incident has shocked local residents and led to an increased police presence in the area.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed his dismay, sending his best wishes to the soldier and his family.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Chief of General Staff, General Sir Roly Walker, also expressed their concern and support.
The local community, known for its ties to the military, is deeply affected by this brutal attack.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses described the horror of the attack, with one woman recounting how she heard the victim’s wife desperately calling for medical help.
Another neighbor saw the attacker calmly ride away on a motorbike, which only added to the community’s fear and confusion.
The attack has drawn comparisons to the 2013 murder of Fusilier Lee Rigby, highlighting the ongoing concerns about such violent acts.
Ongoing Investigation
The police investigation is still ongoing, with a focus on determining the attacker’s motives and any potential links to the area.
The local community, including military families, is on edge, but authorities are working to ensure there is no further threat.
The Ministry of Defence has requested privacy for the injured soldier and his family during this difficult time.
TDPel Media
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