One dead in stabbing after skate park altercation
A murder investigation is currently underway in Northampton following a double stabbing at Briar Hill Skate Park on the afternoon of Wednesday, 18 February 2026.
A man in his 20s was pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts from the public and emergency services. A teenage boy remains in hospital in a critical condition with life-threatening injuries.
Investigation and Arrests ⚖️
Northamptonshire Police have significantly widened their investigation over the last 48 hours. As of late Thursday, seven people have been arrested in connection with the incident:
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Murder Suspects: Four teenage boys, aged 17, 16, 15, and 14, were arrested on suspicion of murder.
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Assisting an Offender: Two men (aged 35 and 56) and a woman (aged 33) were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.
All seven suspects are from Northampton and remain in police custody.
Local Impact and Security
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Cordon and Closures: A large police cordon remains around the skate park in Ringway. Several nearby roads are affected, and the public is urged to avoid the area while forensic officers continue to search the green space.
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Community Reassurance: High-visibility patrols have been increased in the Briar Hill area. Chief Inspector Kim Jackson described the incident as "unsettling" for the close-knit community and thanked those who assisted emergency crews at the scene.
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Council Response: Mark Arnull, leader of West Northamptonshire Council, expressed that the community is "deeply saddened" and is working with police to support local residents.
Appeal for Information 📞
Detective Chief Inspector Torie Harrison has emphasized that the investigation is moving at a fast pace. Police are specifically asking for:
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Witnesses who were near Briar Hill Skate Park around 15:45 GMT on Wednesday.
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Footage: Any CCTV, doorbell camera, or mobile phone video from the surrounding area.
Anyone with information is asked to call Northamptonshire Police on 101 (quoting incident 26000098294) or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555111.
