Three Injured in Early-Morning Stabbing Near Reading Churchyard, Man Arrested for Attempted Murder

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Three men were injured in a stabbing incident near St Mary’s Church in Reading, Berkshire, in the early hours of today. A 34-year-old man from Reading has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody.

Thames Valley Police said the attack took place at around 3:25 am on St Mary’s Butts, a central location close to the Oracle shopping centre and several bars. The victims, a man in his late teens, one in his twenties, and another in his thirties, sustained serious injuries. The teenager has since been discharged from the hospital, while the other two remain under medical care.

A large police cordon was established around the crime scene, causing significant disruption to traffic and public transport in the area. St Mary’s Butts is a major route for buses and vehicles, and closures led to delays throughout the day.

Officers in multiple police vans and marked cars maintained a visible presence at the site while forensic teams worked. Police say the cordon will stay in place until investigative work concludes.

Detective Inspector Sally Russell of Thames Valley Police assured the public that the case is being treated as a high priority. “We know this attempted murder will cause concern, but we are investigating it as a high priority, with one suspect currently in police custody,” she said. She urged anyone with information or mobile phone footage to contact the force directly rather than sharing it online.

The police have requested that anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant recordings call the non-emergency number 101 or report online, quoting reference number 43250406185. Information can also be given anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or through its website.

DI Russell acknowledged the disruption caused by the cordon and asked residents and visitors for patience. “We will reduce and remove the scene as soon as we are able to. We apologise for any inconvenience caused,” she said.

The location of the stabbing, adjacent to a church graveyard in the heart of the town centre, has drawn attention due to its proximity to nightlife venues and public transport hubs. Police have not confirmed any motive or whether the suspect and victims were known to each other.

The serious nature of the incident has prompted heightened patrols in the area to reassure the public. Officers are engaging with local residents and businesses to address safety concerns.

Thames Valley Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the stabbing. No additional arrests have been reported, and there has been no official update on the condition of the two hospitalised victims.

The incident follows a series of recent violent offences in urban centres that have raised concerns about knife-related crime in the United Kingdom. According to the Office for National Statistics, knife crime has seen fluctuations in recent years, with some regions experiencing increases in recorded offences. Law enforcement agencies continue to focus on prevention strategies, targeted patrols, and community engagement to reduce such incidents.

Anyone with relevant information is urged to assist the investigation by contacting police or Crimestoppers as soon as possible.