Teenager Arrested Following Fatal Stabbing Incident Near University Campus
An 18-year-old male has been taken into police custody on suspicion of murder after a man was fatally stabbed in Leicester city centre, close to the campus of De Montfort University. The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday evening, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting a major police investigation.
Details of the Oxford Street Incident
Leicestershire Police were alerted just after 5pm on Tuesday following reports that a man had collapsed on Oxford Street, near its junction with Bonners Lane. While officers were en route to the scene, it was confirmed that the victim – a man in his twenties – had suffered stab wounds. Emergency services transported him to Leicester Royal Infirmary, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries a short time later.
Initial police inquiries suggest the victim was involved in an altercation with another man in the street before the attack occurred. The suspect reportedly left the scene before authorities arrived, but swift police work led to the arrest of an 18-year-old man who remains in custody for questioning.
Police Investigation and Witness Appeals
Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Lorna Granville provided details about the ongoing investigation: "We are currently piecing together exactly what has occurred on the corner of Oxford Street and Bonners Lane between, what is reported, as two men involved in a confrontation. One of the men is believed to have been stabbed and has then collapsed in the street. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he died in hospital."
The police are actively reviewing CCTV footage from the area and speaking to potential witnesses to assist with their investigation. DI Granville acknowledged that many people came to the victim's aid before emergency services arrived and expressed gratitude for their assistance.
Key appeals from investigators include:
- Witnesses who assisted the victim but haven't yet spoken to police
- Motorists who were driving along Oxford Street around 5pm
- Anyone with dashcam footage of the area during the incident
DI Granville added: "I appreciate the incident has caused major disruption in the city, with a number of roads closed. We are working to reduce this impact as soon as we can. Local officers will be in the area over the coming days carrying out reassurance patrols."
University Response and Community Impact
De Montfort University released a statement confirming awareness of "a very serious incident on our campus" and their cooperation with Leicestershire Police's immediate investigation. The university expressed that their thoughts are with everyone affected by the tragedy and confirmed they are offering direct support to students and staff who witnessed the incident.
The incident has caused significant disruption in the area, with several roads remaining closed while the investigation continues. University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust warned patients with Wednesday appointments about traffic disruption around Leicester Royal Infirmary due to the ongoing road closures, advising people to allow extra travel time and follow police instructions.
Local Political Response
Councillor Liz Sahu, speaking on behalf of fellow Castle ward councillors Patrick Kitterick and Mick Gregg, expressed concern about the incident: "Local councillors are very concerned and worried to read about the 'serious incident' that occurred at DMU last night. I hope and pray that everyone is safe. We will seek to discuss this incident and other worrying incidents that have recently occurred in our city with the police."
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact police on 101, quoting incident number 495 of February 3.
