Man charged after two men injured in Brighton knife attack
A police cordon on Sillwood Street after the knife attack. Photo: ImJustBrighton
A man has been charged after two men were injured in a knife attack in Brighton city centre, with members of the public stepping in to tackle and detain the suspect until police arrived.
The key facts
Emergency services were called to Sillwood Street at around 6pm on Saturday 27 June, following reports that a man was threatening people with a knife and assaulting members of the public.
According to Sussex Police, a 29-year-old local man suffered a slash wound to his face and ear. A second local man, aged 28, was struck in the face through the window of a taxi. Both were taken to hospital for treatment and have since been discharged.
Sussex Police at the scene on Sillwood Street. Photo: ImJustBrighton
Police said the man then attempted to take a pedestrian's dog before members of the public intervened, tackling him to the ground and seizing the knife until officers arrived a short time later. The dog was not injured.
Officers arrested 33-year-old Toby Sousa, of no fixed address, at the scene. He has since been charged with two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm, threatening a person with a blade, and affray. He was due to appear at Brighton Magistrates' Court on Monday 29 June.
Onlookers gather as police attend the scene on Sillwood Street. Photo: ImJustBrighton
"Following a series of fast-paced enquiries, charges have now been authorised in this case. This incident caused significant alarm to members of the public, and we would like to thank everyone who assisted officers on the day and has since supported the wider investigation. Their assistance has been invaluable. Officers will continue to maintain a visible presence in the area, carrying out reassurance patrols to provide confidence to the local community."
A Sussex Police car outside No.1 Sillwood Place during the response. Photo: ImJustBrighton
Information verified from Sussex Police. As the case is now before the courts, ImJustBrighton will report further developments as they are confirmed. Published by ImJustBrighton, reaching 500k per post
