Manhunt under way after woman left with 'several stab wounds to her chest' in rural Chorley

Lancashire Police have launched a manhunt after a woman was left with several stab wounds to her chest.
Following enquiries, detectives want to trace John Cowley in connection with the attackFollowing enquiries, detectives want to trace John Cowley in connection with the attack
Following enquiries, detectives want to trace John Cowley in connection with the attack

The incident took place yesterday afternoon around 5.45pm in Ashtrees, Mawdesley, where police were called by paramedics following reports a woman had been stabbed outside an address in the road.

Officers attended and a 50-year-old woman was found at the scene with several wounds to her abdomen.

Read More
Victim and man sought by police in connection to Chorley stabbing are 'known to ...
Following enquiries, detectives want to trace John Cowley in connection with the attackFollowing enquiries, detectives want to trace John Cowley in connection with the attack
Following enquiries, detectives want to trace John Cowley in connection with the attack
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

She was assaulted was taken to hospital by air ambulance and is currently in a serious but stable condition.

Following enquiries, detectives want to trace John Cowley in connection with the attack.

Cowley, 63, is described as white, 5ft 8in tall, with grey hair.

Police at the scene of Moody Lane, Mawdesley, where a car was apparently burnt out outside a property - as police investigate a stabbing in the village.Police at the scene of Moody Lane, Mawdesley, where a car was apparently burnt out outside a property - as police investigate a stabbing in the village.
Police at the scene of Moody Lane, Mawdesley, where a car was apparently burnt out outside a property - as police investigate a stabbing in the village.

Police are appealing for information leading to his whereabouts and advising people not to approach him.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Det Supt Claire McEnery, of Lancashire Police, said: “We want to speak to John Cowley in connection with a very serious offence.

“I would urge anyone who has seen him, or a man matching his description, to contact police immediately.

“I would also urge John himself to hand himself in if he sees this appeal

Ashtrees in Mawdesley, the scene of the crime (Image: Google Maps)Ashtrees in Mawdesley, the scene of the crime (Image: Google Maps)
Ashtrees in Mawdesley, the scene of the crime (Image: Google Maps)

“He could be carrying weapons and people are advised not to approach him.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log 1091 of October 10 or in an emergency or for an immediate sighting call 999.

Alternatively you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.