Police confirm Colchester High Street screwdriver stabbing was not gang related and renew appeal for witnesses

A man in his 20s was rushed to Colchester General Hospital in the early hours of Sunday morning after being stabbed with a screwdriver in Colchester High Street.

His injuries were initially described as life threatening but he has now said to be in a stable but still serious condition.

Police released a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to in connection with the attack on Monday but are yet to identify a suspect.

Det Sgt Stewart Eastbrook, who is leading the investigation, said police were still waiting to speak to the victim of the attack.

He said: “The appeal is still current.

“As well as a suspect we would like to speak to any witnesses who were in the area and might have seen what happened.

“The victim is now stable and his injuries are no longer life threatening.

“He remains in hospital and we are waiting to speak to him.”

Mr Eastbrook confirmed police were treating the attack as isolated and said it was not believed to be related to gang or organised violence.

He said: “At the moment there is nothing to suggest it is gang related.

“On a Friday or Saturday night, with so many people in town there, is unfortunately, always the chance a public order offence will occur.

“We are treating it as isolated and do not believe it is linked to any gangs or anything organised.”

The incident happened at roughly 4.30am on Sunday.

The suspect who police want to trace is described as white, in his twenties and with short, mousey brown hair and being of medium build.

After the attack, the man fled towards St Peter’s Street in the Dutch Quarter.

Forensic teams were on the scene throughout Sunday as the investigation began.

Anyone with information should contact Colchester CID on 101 quoting reference 151 of March 18.

Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via the website on crimestoppers-org.uk.