Burnley M&S stabbing: Man detained under Mental Health Act

A man arrested following a stabbing at Marks and Spencer store in Burnley has now been detained under the Mental Health Act, police said.

Two women, including a shop worker, were stabbed by the 57-year old local man on 2 December at the store on St James Street in the town.

Lancashire police said the man initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but has now been detained for 28 days for an assessment of his mental health.

Police said it is continuing with the enquiries, but the incident is not being treated as a terrorism incident.

“Our enquiries into this incident are ongoing and I would like to continue to appeal to members of the public who may have seen or filmed this incident, or who have information which could assist, to get in touch with us,” said Supt Stasia Osiowy, of East Police.

“I would like to stress again this is not being treated as a terrorism incident and we continue to keep an open mind as to motivation of this individual.”

The victims – a shop worker in her 40s and a shopper in her 60s – were taken to hospital for treatment. One has now been discharged and the other remains in hospital.

The attacker was detained by members of the public and store staff. Police has recovered a knife from him, and held extra patrols in the town centre to reassure businesses and shoppers.

The M&S store was closed following the incident but has re-opened yesterday.