Four people have been arrested after a man was stabbed in the back in Darlington.
Police, including armed officers, were called to Louisa Road at around 2.20pm on Monday where they found that a man in his twenties had suffered a single stab wound to the back. He was taken to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, where he remains in a stable condition.
Four men, aged between 18 and 22, have been arrested in connection with the incident and remain in police custody. Police believe the victim and suspects are known to each other.
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Detective Superintendent Craig Rudd, who is leading the investigation, said: "I know many people in the local area will be shocked by what has happened, and I understand their concerns. I would like to reassure them that we believe this incident was not a random attack and that those involved are known to each other.
"We have also increased our patrols in the area to provide further reassurance to local residents. A team of officers are currently working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
"If you have any information that could assist their investigation, please get in touch with us as soon as possible."
Durham Constabulary urged anyone with information to call them on 101, quoting incident number 209 of July 29, or submitting information online at www.durham.police.uk. Those who would prefer to remain anonymous can also contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
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