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Detectives start appeal in Gosport knife investigation

HAMPSHIRE CONSTABULARY have announced they have launched an “urgent” appeal for witnesses and information to assists their continuing investigations following a serious incident in Gosport last Friday morning (January 24); which saw a man charged with multiple offenses after using a knife to damage several vehicles near to the Town Centre area.

Officers were called at around 5:54am to reports that a man had slashed a number of car tyres in Queens Road, Stoke Road and Elmhurst Road areas using a large knife. Further calls were then made to state that he had targeted passing vehicles including a bus carrying several passengers on Stoke Road; the driver helping ensure no injuries to the public.

A man was located by police before he was arrested and taken to hospital for a hand injury; which was sustained in the incident. He has since been named as twenty-seven year old Charles Williams, of Elmhurst Road, and was charged for twelve counts of criminal damage; as well as two counts of affray and having a knife or sharp pointed weapon in public.

After appearing at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (25/01), he was remanded in custody and is next due for a ‘hearing’ at Portsmouth Crown Court on February 25. Enquiries are ongoing and officers are keen to speak to anyone in the area who witnessed this incident / the male involved; particularly those who have video footage that would assist.

Investigators are urging anybody with potential information to contact the police by calling their non-emergency number 101 and quote the case’s reference number of 44250034503. They can further submit details using the online reporting tool available on the Hampshire Police website, with all official support and further guidance available on the links here.

Alternatively, readers can contact the “independent charity” Crimestoppers 100% anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 for absolutely free; or via their anonymous online forms which can be found through their website: https://orlo.uk/250kR

PICTURED BY ALAMY (E89D5H): A stock image portraying reflective signs on bottom of standard white police vehicle.