A police sergeant has been hailed for his exceptional bravery after confronting and subduing a knife wielding attacker during a violent incident in Wigan Town Centre on 18 July 2024.

The attack unfolded on Market Street when a man walking with a friend was approached and stabbed from behind in what police described as a completely unprovoked assault.

The victim fell to the ground as the attacker demanded his bag and continued the assault, kicking him and inflicting further stab wounds before fleeing the scene.

PS Carl Beck, who was on duty nearby, heard the emergency call over his police radio and immediately recognised that few Taser trained officers were available. He deployed from Wigan Police Station without delay.

On arrival, members of the public directed him toward the suspect, who was moving through the busy town centre. Despite receiving conflicting reports that additional people may have been stabbed, PS Beck continued the pursuit, prioritising the safety of the public amid the confusion.

After a short chase, he located the attacker, who was still armed with the knife. The suspect refused to comply with instructions and attempted to grab the officer’s Taser in an effort to disarm him.

PS Beck maintained control of the situation and, despite the risk to his own safety, successfully deployed his Taser, bringing the attacker to the ground and ending the threat.

Police later confirmed that PS Beck’s actions likely prevented further injuries. The victim survived the attack and received medical treatment.

The offender was arrested at the scene and later charged. In October 2024, he was sentenced to six years in prison, with an extended licence period of four years, reflecting the severity of the incident.

Greater Manchester Police Federation Chair Mike Peake said: “Carl chased down a highly volatile and violent young man, without fear for his own safety. He was also getting conflicting reports from members of the public that the man may have stabbed other people too.

“Carl acted courageously and calmly that day and prevented the man from harming anyone else.”

Chief Constable, Sir Stephen Watson, said: “It is often said that police officers run toward danger when others flee, and PS Carl Beck exemplified this truth.

“In the face of peril, he showed immense courage and unwavering commitment to protecting others.

“His actions did not end when the immediate threat passed, he demonstrated the same dedication in providing aftercare and support to the offender.

"PS Carl Beck sets a terrific and inspiring example for all of us across the force."

Wigan District Commander, Ch Supt Clare Jenkins, added: “His level of selflessness to ensure there was no wider risk to the public, disregarding the risk to himself was outstanding.”