Horror at Taco Bell: Boy Stabbed Amid '25 Youths with Knives,' Diners Intervene
A 13-year-old boy was seriously injured after being stabbed at a Taco Bell in Rochdale, leading to two arrests. An eyewitness recounted the horrific moment when a large group of youths, some armed, entered the restaurant. Police investigations are currently underway following the incident on August 19.
A 13-year-old boy sustained serious injuries after being stabbed in a Taco Bell restaurant in Rochdale. The incident occurred at approximately 6pm on Saturday, August 19, at the Riverside Walk establishment, prompting a call to Greater Manchester Police (GMP).
Upon arrival, emergency services found the teenager with significant wounds, and he was subsequently transported to the hospital. Following the incident, two teenage boys were arrested by police on suspicion of assault and possession of a bladed article. GMP has stated that enquiries into the event are ongoing.
An eyewitness, David Lane, who was dining at the restaurant with his family, described the experience as a 'horrific moment'. Mr. Lane recounted to the Manchester Evening News that a group of children initially entered and began fighting around 5:50pm. He approached a Taco Bell crew member, requesting that the group be removed and the door locked for the safety of his family and other diners. However, the door was not secured.
Approximately ten minutes later, the crew member guarding the door was pushed, allowing a larger group of 20 to 25 youths, some reportedly armed with knives, to rush into the restaurant. Mr. Lane's son had just left the toilet area when the group entered the bathroom vicinity. It was then that the 13-year-old boy was stabbed, leading to crying and screaming.
Mr. Lane bravely intervened, grabbing napkins and applying pressure to the boy's wound, noting the significant blood loss. He believes his actions were crucial in helping to save the boy's life. Emergency services, including an ambulance and multiple police cars, quickly arrived at the scene. The restaurant was evacuated and has remained closed as the investigation continues.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police confirmed the details: "We were called to reports of a stabbing at 6.09pm on Riverside Walk. Boy, 13, taken to hospital with serious injuries. Two teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of assault and possession of a bladed article. Enquiries are ongoing."