Staffordshire Police have made further arrests as they pursue an inquiry into a fatal stabbing on Ridgway Road, Shelton that left a man in his 40s dead. The force said officers were called late on Thursday evening and the victim died at the scene.
Arrests and custody
Police confirmed that a 19-year-old man from Stoke-on-Trent has been arrested on suspicion of murder. A 20-year-old man, also from the city, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and of possessing a knife blade or other sharp instrument in a public place. Both remain in custody for questioning.
A 25-year-old man from Stoke-on-Trent had been arrested earlier and continues to be held, while a 17-year-old boy from Newcastle-under-Lyme has been released on bail with conditions. A further man, aged 24 and from Stoke-on-Trent, has been released with no further action.
| Age | Origin | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 19 | Stoke-on-Trent | Arrested – suspected murder (in custody) |
| 20 | Stoke-on-Trent | Arrested – suspected murder; suspected possession of blade (in custody) |
| 25 | Stoke-on-Trent | Arrested previously (in custody) |
| 17 | Newcastle-under-Lyme | Released on bail with conditions |
| 24 | Stoke-on-Trent | Released – no further action |
Investigation under way
Detective Chief Inspector Ian Fitzgerald from Staffordshire Police's major investigations department said officers were grateful for community assistance as enquiries progress.
"I would like to thank the community for their help and support with this investigation so far. Officers continue to work tirelessly to track down those responsible."
The force statement added that the victim's next of kin are being supported by specially trained officers.
How the public can help
Police have urged anyone with information, or who may have captured relevant footage, to come forward. Contact routes given were the force's online reporting portal or Crimestoppers.
- To submit information to Staffordshire Police use the force online portal.
- To provide anonymous information contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The inquiry remains active and residents can expect a continued police presence in the Shelton area while detectives carry out forensic examinations and follow-up enquiries.
Further updates will be issued by officers as lines of inquiry are progressed and any charges are considered.