PC Josh Laddie and PC Andrew Docherty

A pair of courageous officers risked their lives to intervene in a violent knife attack and prevented potentially fatal injuries.

In April 2025, PC Andrew Docherty and PC Josh Laddie were on routine patrol in Murton, County Durham, when they came across a serious and rapidly unfolding incident.

While driving along a residential street, they observed two males run into the road ahead of them and begin fighting, falling to the ground as they did so. As the officers approached in their vehicle, it became immediately apparent that both individuals were armed with metallic weapons, which they were using to violently attack one another.

Without hesitation, the officers exited their vehicle and ran towards the males to intervene. As they closed in, it was clear that one of the males was repeatedly stabbing the other in the chest and abdomen with a large kitchen knife.

Recognising the immediate threat to life, both officers drew their Tasers and moved in to separate the individuals. PC Laddie physically intervened, pulling the two males apart at close quarters, placing himself directly in harm’s way. The suspect, still armed with the knife, attempted to flee the scene, however PC Docherty acted decisively, deploying his Taser to safely detain him.

Despite being confronted with an armed and highly dangerous situation, both officers placed themselves between the victim and the attacker, fully aware of the risk posed by the weapons being used. Their actions prevented further injuries and brought the violent incident under control within moments.

The victim sustained two stab wounds, one to the left side of his chest and one to his back. Although these injuries were not ultimately life-threatening, the nature and location of the wounds meant they could very easily have proved fatal. Given the repeated nature of the attack, there is a clear likelihood that without the immediate intervention of PCs Docherty and PC Laddie, the outcome could have been far more serious.

This incident was encountered entirely unexpectedly while the officers were on routine patrol. They had no prior warning of the danger they were about to face and could not have anticipated the severity of the situation. Both individuals were actively engaged in a violent confrontation and armed with weapons, yet the officers acted instantly and without regard for their own safety.

Following the arrest, the officers remained professional and composed, securing the suspect, managing the scene and administering first aid to the victim until further assistance arrived.

As a direct result of their swift and decisive actions, supported by colleagues from Response and CID during the subsequent investigation, the offender was brought before the courts, received a custodial sentence and has been removed from the streets.

The bravery, professionalism and quick thinking shown by PC Docherty and PC Laddie prevented what could have been a fatal outcome. Their actions exemplify the highest standards of policing and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to protecting the public, even in the face of significant personal danger.

Durham Police Federation Chair Lousie Guest said: "PC Laddie and Docherty are well deserved of this nomination; they showed selfless bravery in a highly volatile and dangerous situation.

“They successfully apprehended a violent offender and their bravery and courage   should be commended. They are a credit to the service and community they serve, and I am proud that they are part of Durham Constabulary.”

Chief Constable Rachel Bacon said: “PC Docherty and PC Laddie demonstrated exceptional bravery and professionalism when they intervened in an ongoing knife attack.  

 “The officers came across this incident whilst on patrol, they did not have time to consider their response or plan what to do. They acted with instinct, using their training and without hesitation took immediate decisive action, placing themselves in danger to protect the public and safe a life.  

“They confronted the suspect who was actively attacking the victim, they prevented further harm, and provided critical assistance to the injured person, ultimately saving a life. Their calm and courageous teamwork led to the safe apprehension of the suspect, exemplifying the highest standards of courage, selflessness, and commitment to public duty. All whilst acting together as their support travelled to the area.  

“Police officers across Durham, and the country, demonstrate acts of selflessness daily, demonstrating unwavering commitment to maintaining public safety and risking their own safety in doing so. As chief constable I am exceptionally proud of the actions of PC Docherty and PC Laddie and feel they are deserving of national recognition, I wholeheartedly support this nomination.”