Mystery Substance Attack: TeenAGER Critically Injured in Exchange Square
A teenage boy has been left with 'potentially life-changing' injuries after an unknown substance was thrown at him in Manchester city centre. Police responded to Exchange Square where a 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault following a verbal altercation. A large scene is currently in place as investigations continue, with authorities appealing for information from the public.
A teenage boy sustained 'potentially life-changing' injuries following an incident in Manchester city centre where an unknown substance was thrown at him. Greater Manchester Police were alerted to a disturbance at Exchange Square at approximately 6.10pm on Saturday, September 12. Emergency services, including police officers, fire crews, and an ambulance, swiftly responded to the scene to address the situation.
Investigations established that the teenage boy was injured after a verbal altercation. While the injuries have been described as not life-threatening, their long-term impact is considered potentially life-changing by the police force. In connection with the incident, a 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and is currently being held in custody for questioning.
A significant police scene remains in place at Exchange Square as enquiries are ongoing. Photographs from the area indicate that the space outside the Arndale shopping centre, directly opposite the Printworks, has been cordoned off by law enforcement. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service also confirmed their attendance to the incident.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police reiterated the timeline and details, stating: "At 6.10pm this evening (Saturday 12 September), we were called to an ongoing disturbance at Exchange Square in the city centre. Officers arrived at the scene and established that an individual has had an unknown substance thrown at them following a verbal altercation. The victim, a male in his mid-teens has received an injury that has been described as not life-threatening but potentially life-changing. A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault and remains in custody. There is a scene in place and investigations are currently ongoing."
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this incident to come forward. This includes individuals with any CCTV, mobile phone, or Dashcam footage. Information can be provided to Greater Manchester Police by calling 101 or by visiting gmp.police.uk, quoting log number 2156 of 12/09/2026. Alternatively, members of the public can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.