Preston teenager, 16, released on bail as investigation into Deepdale stabbings continues

He was arrested after a man and a woman were stabbed three hours apart in the Blackpool Road area between 3.45pm and 6.45pm on Sunday (January 26).

The boy was arrested later that evening on suspicion of attempted robbery, robbery and section 18 wounding.

He has since been bailed.

The Post has asked Lancashire Police whether detectives are looking for any other suspects and whether the knife used in the stabbings has been recovered.

The force has not responded.

But a police spokesman said the investigation into the stabbings is on-going.

"A 16-year-old boy from Preston has been arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery, robbery and section 18 wounding", said a spokesman.

"He’s been bailed until February 21 pending further enquiries. He hasn’t been charged.

"Enquiries are continuing."

The man was taken to hospital and had to undergo surgery to treat the wound.

A police spokesman said that his injury is not believed to be life-threatening.

Three hours later, at around 6.45pm, a woman in her 20s was also stabbed in the abdomen and rushed to hospital.

Around five minutes later, a teenage boy was reportedly threatened with a knife and had his bike stolen at Deepdale Retail Park.

The 16-year-old suspect was arrested a short time later.

Police are treating the three incidents as related.

The stabbings and knife threats led to a section 60 order which gave police the authority to stop and search people and vehicles in the area without suspicion.

Residents have spoken to the Post about their concerns following the knife attacks in their community.

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log number 1152 of January 26.