A recent incident in Stamford has left the community shaken after a man was stabbed in an unprovoked attack. According to Lincolnshire Live, the disturbing event unfolded in the early hours of December 13, 2025, following a chance encounter between the assailant, Joshua Munton, and the victim outside a local bar.
The trouble began when 24-year-old Munton was refused entry to the bar. Frustrated, he targeted a stranger who was speaking with door staff at the time. This led Munton to follow the victim to Red Lion Square, where he initiated a confrontation and brandished a knife.
In a shocking turn of events, Munton stabbed the victim twice in the abdomen. The severity of the attack necessitated immediate medical intervention, and the victim was rushed to the hospital, where they underwent surgery to treat their injuries.
Munton, who has no fixed address, appeared before Cambridge Crown Court on April 23, 2026. He pleaded guilty to several charges, including grievous bodily harm, possession of a bladed article, and involvement in the supply of controlled drugs. As a result, he was sentenced to five years in prison, which includes two years for the grievous bodily harm charge, alongside a consecutive three-year term for the drug-related offences. Additionally, he received a concurrent 12-month sentence for possessing the knife used in the attack.
Detective Constable Robert Hopkins, who led the investigation, expressed his concern over the level of violence displayed in this incident. He emphasised that such behaviour is wholly unacceptable and will not be tolerated in the community. "This was an unprovoked attack arising from a chance encounter outside a bar, where the offender had no prior association with the victim, who was simply enjoying a night out with friends," he remarked.
DC Hopkins also took the opportunity to thank the victim for their cooperation throughout the investigation, as well as the bar staff who provided immediate first aid before paramedics arrived. He acknowledged the swift response of the local police officers, who managed to locate and arrest Munton within 15 minutes of the attack being reported. The detective expressed gratitude to members of the public who came forward with crucial information that helped secure a conviction.
This incident has raised questions about safety in Stamford, particularly in nightlife areas. As the community processes this shocking event, residents may find themselves discussing the implications for local security and the support available for victims of violent crime.