‘Soldier’ hospitalised after ‘critical stabbing’ close to military barracks

A British soldier has been rushed to hospital by air ambulance after a ‘serious stabbing’ close to an Army barracks this evening.

The man, who is in his 40s, was found seriously injured less than 200 metres from Brompton Barracks in Chatham, Kent, at around 6pm.

According to sources he was walking to his house close to the Army base when an altercation took place involving another man in Sally Port Gardens.

The motive is unknown, but police have confirmed a 24-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. 

Photos posted on social media show a heavy emergency services presence, with police vehicles and officers in forensics gear working behind a cordon.

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Police officers and paramedics stand in the road next to a police vehicle following the serious assault

The incident took place in Sally Port Gardens, close to Bromtpon Barracks in Gillingham this evening

An air ambulance was seen landing in Great Lines Heritage Park, which lies next to the scene of the incident.

The Ministry of Defence said: ‘We are aware of an emerging incident in the Chatham area which may have involved a soldier.

‘As the circumstances are currently under investigation by Kent Police, we cannot comment further.’

A spokesperson for Kent Police said: ‘Kent Police was called at around 5.55pm on Tuesday 23 July 2024 to a report of a serious assault in Sally Port Gardens, Gillingham.

‘A man in his 40s suffered injuries consistent with stab wounds and was taken to hospital for treatment. His condition is currently described as serious.

‘Officers attended and at around 6.20pm they arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder.

‘A cordon is currently in place around the scene of the incident and enquiries to establish the circumstances are ongoing.

‘Residents are advised to expect an ongoing police presence in the area.’

The incident took place in Sally Port Gardens (pictured), which lies less than 200 metres from Brompton Barracks

Brompton Barracks is the home of the Royal School of Military Engineering Regiment. Many of its soldiers live adjacent to the base in army families accommodation.

The Mail understands the wounded officer was walking alone from the barracks. According to army sources he was wearing uniform at the time. The attack occurred in daylight.

MailOnline has contacted South East Coast Ambulance Service for further information.