Four arrests after double stabbing in Deakin Close, Watford

One of the boys is believed to be suffering possible life-changing injuries after being found with stab wounds following an incident in Deakin Close at 6.50pm (August 17).

The boys, aged 16 and 17, were taken to hospital as officers including a police helicopter and dog unit searched the area for suspects believed to be involved in the attack.

Police have confirmed that four people have been arrested in connection with the incident. 

Four teenagers aged between 16 and 18 were arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. They currently remain in police custody.

Following the double stabbing, there was a heavy police presence in the western area of Watford, including sightings of police in Vicarage Road near Tolpits Lane at 7.30pm and in Epsom Road.

Emergency services at Epsom Road

Eyewitnesses said that Tolpits Lane was closed by officers between Willow Lane and Scammell Way.

Watford Chief Inspector Ian Grout said: "We appreciate that news of this incident will be unsettling for the community, but I would like to reassure residents that youth violent crime continues to be one of our priorities in Watford.

"There is a huge amount of partnership work that is carried out, often behind the scenes, to tackle what is an incredibly complex societal issue.

"We are not treating this incident as a random attack, and we believe those involved are known to one another.

"If you have any information about what happened, please report it. Remember, you do not have to come directly to police."

Cllr Nigel Bell, borough and county councillor for Holywell and West Watford, said: "As local councillors we are very concerned to hear about the stabbing incidents that took place in Holywell ward last night.

"I have called for a full briefing from the Police to us as local Councillors, as naturally local residents have contacted us worried for their families and the area they live in.

"We ask that residents of Holywell Ward and West Watford cooperate fully with the Police in their investigations and pass on any information they can that may be helpful."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 101 quoting reference 41/63588/21.