Police 'aware' of online speculation as man charged over Stirling 'stabbing'

Officers said a 29-year-old man, described as white and from the Stirling area, is due to appear in court on Monday.

Police ‘aware’ of online speculation over Stirling stabbing as man chargediStock

A man has been charged after a woman was stabbed in Stirling, as police confirmed they are aware of “false information” online surrounding the incident.

The incident occurred in the city shortly after 8.20pm on Saturday evening.

A 21-year-old woman was taken to Forth Valley Royal Hospital for treatment to a stab wound, which is said to be non-life threatening.

A 29-year-old man who was arrested in connection with the incident has now been charged.

He is due to appear at Falkirk Sheriff Court on Monday.

Following the man’s initial arrest and social media speculation, Police Scotland made the unusual move of describing the suspect as white and local to the Stirling area.

Incorrect reports circulating online, which were described as “false” by the force, came amid unrest across England and in Belfast in recent days after the murders of three young girls in Southport on Monday.

Chief Inspector Liam Harman said: “We fully appreciate the impact this incident has had in the local community and appreciate the support provided to our investigation.

“This is being treated as an isolated incident and there is no wider risk to the public.

“We are aware of speculation and false information circulating on social media regarding this incident. I would urge people not to add to this speculation.”

The online speculation surrounding the incident in Stirling was condemned by the First Minister, who urged the public not to engage in “unhelpful speculation”.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, John Swinney said: “This is a serious incident and my thoughts are with the victim.

“This is an isolated incident and I have been advised there is no wider threat to the public.

“I would encourage everyone to refrain from unhelpful speculation on social media.”

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