The stabbing of a man in the Springfield area yesterday took place just seconds after a mix-up over an early-morning delivery, we’ve been told.

A 24-year-old man has been arrested following the attack on a lorry driver in Colinward Street. Locals say the victim, who’s in his 60s, was stabbed in the torso and neck in the wake of confusion over a cement delivery.

Chief Inspector Bobby Singleton from Tennent Street has appealed for anyone who witnessed the attack to come forward.

Injuries

“Police received the report of the assault at approximately 6.40am,” he said. “The man in his 60s is currently being treated in hospital for his injuries where his condition is described as serious but stable.

“I would ask anyone who witnessed this incident to contact us at Tennent Street police station on the non-emergency number 101. Or if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

SDLP Councillor Tim Attwood said his sympathies are with the victim of the attack.

“I want to extend my thoughts to the victim of this callous and horrific attack,” he said. “We don’t yet know the full circumstances but it appears that a delivery driver was stabbed in the neck and back in the Colinward Street area of the city. This attack happened at a time when parents and children were preparing for the school day. To bring such aggressive and appalling violence on to our streets like this is utterly wrong.

“The driver is currently in hospital and I wish him a full and speedy recovery. I would encourage anyone who saw anything to report it to the police as soon as possible.”