Horrific STABBING at Parklife leaves teen scarred

A 17-year-old and his girlfriend have been left traumatised after he was violently stabbed at Parklife festival.

The incident occurred on Sunday 7th June at around 7:45pm outside the Drop The Mustard tent. Victim Lewis Smith was chatting to his mates when he was kicked, knocked to the ground and then stabbed, leaving him with a stomach injury.

The victim, Lewis Smith. Image source: M.E.N.

Detectives have described the attack as unprovoked and violent. Lewis has spoken out about the incident, saying he felt lucky to be alive.

In an interview with the Manchester Evening News, he said: “I was having a good time, and was with my girlfriend at the festival, then I felt a kick from behind.

“We were with friends, and I thought it was one of them messing about. Then I looked round and this lad was stood there and there were about five others with him.

“I asked him why he had done that, and he said to me ‘what are you going to do about it’. I was still in shock.

“We had a bit of a row, then he pushed me back. I felt threatened.”

Police released this image of Lewis’ injuries

At this point, Lewis tripped on a tent’s guy line and fallen to the ground.

“He started to get on top of me. He was waving the knife about. I got cut on the hands as well. I didn’t know I had been stabbed in the chest at first. I didn’t feel dizzy or anything. Then my girlfriend started screaming ‘you’re bleeding’.

“The paramedics were there within seconds and took me straight into a tent and put stitches in the wound.

“I have no idea why he did that to me. We had not even made eye-contact before he kicked me. I know how lucky I am. It could have been a lot more serious.

“I am fine now. The stitches dropped out on their own. I have a right scar though.

“I believe the person who attacked me came back to the scene afterwards to see what he had done to me.”

Police have now released an e-fit of someone they wish to speak to in connection with the attack.

Police have also released this e-fit based on witness descriptions.

Detective Constable Rick Pack said: “This was a completely unprovoked and violent attack on someone who was, up until that point, having a good time with his girlfriend and friends.

“The victim was stabbed between the rib cage and stomach and is lucky not to have suffered more of a serious injury.

“We believe after the stabbing, the offender returned when the victim was being treated by paramedics.  Thanks to witnesses, we now have an efit and I would ask anyone who may recognise the description or image, to contact police as soon as possible.”

The attacker has been described as white, in his early 20s, with hazel eyes, a dark coloured coat, a slim build, and long mousey-brown hair hanging just below his ears.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the GMP on 0161 856 3228, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.