Masked Attacker Stabs British Army Officer Near Barracks

A masked motorcyclist attacked and seriously injured a British army officer in southeast England. The suspect, a 24-year-old man, was arrested shortly after on suspicion of attempted murder. The attack, believed to be unrelated to terrorism, may be linked to the suspect's mental health. The officer is in serious but stable condition.

A masked attacker on a motorcycle stabbed and seriously injured a British army officer in daylight near a barracks in southeast England, witnesses and police reported on Wednesday.

Police arrested a 24-year-old man soon after on suspicion of attempted murder, stating that the assailant acted alone and the incident is not believed to be an act of terrorism. Authorities are investigating potential ties to the suspect's mental health.

The injured officer, in his 40s, was airlifted to a hospital and is in serious but stable condition. Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his shock and concern, sending thoughts to the soldier and his family, while Defense Secretary John Healey called the attack 'shocking.' Witnesses described the attacker fleeing the scene on a motorbike.

The road near Brompton Barracks, the headquarters of the British Army's 1 Royal School of Military Engineering Regiment, was cordoned off as police conducted their investigation. The army emphasized respect for the soldier's privacy during this challenging time.

Attacks on soldiers in Britain are uncommon. The last major incident occurred in 2013 when two men influenced by al-Qaida fatally attacked soldier Lee Rigby in London. The perpetrators were sentenced to life in prison.

(With inputs from agencies.)