A teenager was stabbed in a park off Ainsworth Road, near Ainsworth, last night, Sunday, in what has been described by police as a "targeted attack".

Officers were called to Whitehead Park at around 8.30pm and found a 19-year-old man had a stabbing injury to the left side of his chest.

His injuries are not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing and he is in hospital receiving treatment. 

It is believed he was approached by three men in the park, who he did not know, and a "physical altercation" ensued. 

The Bolton News: Whitehead Park Whitehead Park (Image: Newsquest)

Officers sealed off part of Whitehead Park last night and a cordon remained there until around 10am this morning, Monday.  

No arrests have been made and detectives are asking the public to come forward with information.

Read more: Live updates as large police cordon set up around park in Bury 

Sergeant John Nestor of Bury CID said: “This was a targeted attack that has left a young man with a serious stabbing injury. 

“We are certain that this is an isolated, targeted attack and that the wider community are not at risk.

"However, there will be an increased police presence over the next few days, to provide that reassurance. 

“The investigation is still very much in the early stages and we are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident last night or anyone who has any information or CCTV/dashcam/doorbell footage, to contact GMP on 0161 856 8078 or via 101, quoting log number 003282-12022023. 

 

Horror stabbing victim helped by neighbours who found knife still stuck inside him

“Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity – Crimestoppers – anonymously on 0800 555 111.” 

Residents expressed concerns this morning.

A woman who lives across from the park said: “Last night, at around 10.30pm, I could see police in the park with torches looking around. 

The Bolton News: Whitehead Park Whitehead Park (Image: Newsquest)

“There didn’t seem to be many but it’s frightening. 

“I walk and run through the park with my dog at night and it’s worrying. 

“It’s a nice community area, we just cut through the park to go to the shops and walk the dog but it’s quite scary seeing this.” 

Another resident added: “I didn't hear anything. 

"I woke up this morning and saw the tape when I opened my curtains and assumed the council had taped it off to do some work on it or something. 

"It wasn't until my daughter rang me to say it was police tape that I knew about it."