Police release e-fit of intruder who stabbed and punched care home worker

Police have released an e-fit of an intruder who forced his way into a care home and stabbed a care home worker in the arm.

The stabbing happened at 6.15am on Saturday 18 October at The Beeches care home in Ferrybridge Rd, Castleford.

The care worker was in the kitchen area of the home when she heard a sound at the back door. She opened the door and was confronted by a man who forced his way in and punched her. She screamed and as colleagues joined her, the man stabbed her in the arm with a pen-knife before running from the scene.

The 67-year-old was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries and has since been released from hospital.

Around 20 minutes before the stabbing, a member of staff at a nearby care home confronted two men in its grounds. The men made excuses before leaving the area.

Detective Superintendent Nick Wallen of the Protective Services (Crime) Division, said: “Due to both properties being care homes and their vicinity to one another, we are linking these incidents. It is particularly concerning that these men appear to be targeting the homes of elderly and vulnerable people and their motives for doing this are currently unclear.

“We are treating these incidents extremely seriously. We have put on additional patrols in the area and are working tirelessly to identify anyone involved in this and that includes putting this e-fit out. Hopefully someone, somewhere recognises him.”

He added: “Our officers have been making other residential homes in the area aware of these incidents and we would ask people to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to us.

“Anyone who believes they have seen these suspects or who has any information about their identities is asked to call Wakefield District CID on 101 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency situation please call 999.”

The intruder involved in the stabbing is described as being of mixed race, about 30 years old, 5ft 7ins tall, of medium build and wearing a body warmer and jeans.

Two men aged 25 and 28 who were arrested on Sunday on suspicion of assault have since been released on police bail.