Appeal after knife assault in Toxteth

We are appealing for information after reports a man was assaulted in his home in Toxteth in the early hours of today (Thursday 7 December).

Just before 2.10am, police were called to Fernhill Drive to a report a man in his 30s had been assaulted with a kitchen knife, sustaining cuts to his head. 

The offender, who had his face covered, had gained entry to the address through the front door before assaulting the victim.

The victim was taken to hospital for treatment and has since been discharged.

An investigation has been launched with a forensic examination of the scene and house to house enquiries carried out to establish what happened and locate the man responsible. Officers are exploring CCTV opportunities in the area and appealing for anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.

Detective Inspector Chris Carlin said: “Our enquiries into this incident are at an early stage, but we believe the victim was targeted and that he and the suspect are known to each other.

“Thankfully, the victim will make a full recovery from his injuries but anyone who uses a knife – whether on the street or in the home – risks causing both their victim and themselves very serious harm.

Last month, Merseyside Police took part in the national knife crime campaign Operation Sceptre, including a knife surrender that gave members of the public the chance to dispose of knives or weapons safely.

In the last 12 months, Merseyside has seen a 15% reduction in knife crime and a 13% reduction in serious violence offences (November 2022 – October 2023). 

Det Insp Carlin added: “Reducing knife crime in Merseyside is a priority for the force all year round. We understand the devastating impact it can have on individuals, families, and wider communities and our work to educate people of all ages of the dangers they pose continues,

“Both serious violence and knife crime are falling in Merseyside, but we know there is still work to do to tackle knife crime and make communities safer.”

If you have information about this incident,  DM our social media desk via X (formerly Twitter) @MerPolCC quoting reference 23001237310. You can also pass information via Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org