Two teenagers arrested after reported stabbing at McDonald's in Harpurhey

A 14-year-old and a 16-year-old boy have been questioned by police after a stabbing at a shopping centre in Manchester.

McDonald's in Harpurhey
Author: Hannah MakepeacePublished 24th Oct 2019
Last updated 24th Oct 2019

Police say two teenagers have been taken into custody and arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon.

Emergency services were called to the busy restaurant at around 2.35pm yesterday after reports a man had pulled out a knife and witnesses heard screaming.

The building was evacuated and put on lockdown with a police cordon put in place around the entire fast food restaurant in the shopping centre.

Two teenagers were taken to hospital.

A 17-year-old suffered a 'minor arm injury' and an 18-year-old had a 'laceration to the hand.'

McDonald's Harpurhey

Detective Inspector Mark Davis, of GMP’s City of Manchester division, said: “I understand that this incident may cause concern within the local community, but I would like to stress that we are not linking this to terrorism and are treating it as an isolated incident.

“At this time we know that two teenagers are receiving treatment for minor injuries and we are thankful that we are not looking at something more serious. We will be sure to update you as we have more information.

Staff were seen wiping blood from the walls of the restaurant before re-opening for business a few hours after the incident.

McDonald's Harpuhey

Harpurhey Councillor Pat Karney said he wants Manchester to look to London to see how they tackle knife crime.

He said: "I know the Mayor of London's being doing a great deal of work on knives, I'm going to have a look and see what we can do.

"If we don't crack down on knives, if we don't get knives off the street, somebody will be killed sooner or later.

"I think all of Manchester is saying get these knives off the streets. It's up to the public authorities to now look at this more closely."

Police urge anyone with information to get in touch by calling 0161 856 1146 and quoting incident number 1702 of 23/10/19.

Reports can also be made by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.