Residents of a typically peaceful street in Bishop’s Cleeve have shared their shock following a stabbing incident in the village.
The incident occurred shortly after 10pm on Saturday, 25 July, on Finlay Way near the roundabout connecting it with Hayfield Way. Police were alerted to reports of a man being assaulted and suffering a suspected stab wound.
A 21-year-old woman, Jaimee Saunders, was arrested at approximately 5.20am the next morning. On Tuesday, 28 July, she was charged with section 18 wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Saunders appeared at Cheltenham Magistrates' Court and was remanded in custody ahead of her hearing at Gloucester Crown Court on 28 August.
READ MORE: Concerns Raised Over Gloucester Sports Pitch Fee Increases Affecting Grassroots Clubs
READ MORE: Fight at Tewkesbury pub leaves three staff members injured
Additionally, a woman in her 50s was arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice in relation to the case. She has since been released on bail with conditions.
Local residents who live near the roundabout recounted hearing disturbances on the night of the assault and witnessing police activity, including searches of nearby bushes, the following day.
One elderly resident described listening to music when she suddenly heard a commotion coming from a neighbouring property at about 10.15pm. She looked outside to see a heavily equipped police officer holding a firearm. The officer inquired if she had any camera footage, likely referring to a video doorbell, though she did not. She was then asked to return indoors. The woman revealed she was unable to sleep that night as police maintained a presence throughout the night and into Sunday afternoon.
“I didn’t go to bed all night. The police stayed around overnight and were still there the next day,” she said.
Another woman, aged 32 and a resident for five years, described seeing police searching the bushes near the roundabout the morning after the incident. She mentioned that her partner noticed a significant police presence when walking their dog earlier that day.
She added: “It’s shocking that something like this happened here, especially on a street filled with families and older residents. You wouldn’t expect it to happen just around the corner from where you live. I hope the man is okay. Bishop’s Cleeve is generally a safe and pleasant place to live, so this is quite a surprise.”
A long-term resident of 30 years also recalled seeing numerous armed officers and a police cordon set up overnight but no further details.
Gloucestershire Police are continuing to investigate and have urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward. Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to submit information online, quoting reference number 53260063697.