Attempted murder arrest after woman attacked

Kirsten RobertsonWiltshire
BBC An armed police officer dressed in body armour stands next to a marked police car on a road running through an urban green space. Other police cars are visible further down the road. BBC
Armed police were deployed to the area during the search

A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a woman was seriously assaulted, police say.

Emergency services were called to Firsdown near Salisbury, Wiltshire, at 16:45 BST on Tuesday.

A woman in her 50s was taken to hospital with injuries which are believed to be serious but not life threatening.

Wiltshire Police said a man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon following extensive searches in the area. He has been taken to Melksham custody for questioning.

Armed police were deployed to the scene, while a police helicopter was also used in the search.

Det Insp Eirin Martin said: "We appreciate the significant concern this incident caused, with a heightened police presence across the city whilst searches of an address were carried out."

"Please be reassured that this was an isolated incident with no risk to the wider public."

Wiltshire Police said there would be a police presence in the areas of Spire View and Bishopdown as its investigation continued.

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