Bravery award for PC who tackled frenzied knifeman

A police officer who halted a knifeman who had chased after members of the public in a town centre has been commended for his actions.

PC Thomas Fairbrother‑Wilcock was praised for his "exceptional bravery" when he responded to an alert that a man had stabbed two others in a taxi office in Wigan town centre at around 06:45 BST on 5 August 2025.

Fairbrother‑Wilcock knew he had to find the attacker when confronted by several members of the public running towards him, many crying, injured and covered in blood.

GMP said the officer "relied on his training, tactical communication skills and calm, courageous decision making to safely detain the offender".

The force added: "His actions required him to put himself directly in harm's way, demonstrating outstanding personal bravery in the face of a terrifying and fast moving incident.

"The swift intervention by Thomas, supported by PC Lisa Naylor, who courageously broke away from hospital watch to assist, directly protected members of the public and emergency service colleagues."

The officer downplayed his role and praised his colleague Naylor.

He said: "I know I'm the one who received the award, but honestly, I don't know what I'd have done if PC Lisa Naylor hadn't come when she did. Her decision to get to me made a huge difference, and I'm genuinely grateful for her support."

The officer added: "Looking back, the incident was terrifying. In that moment though, there was no time to focus on the fear, I just had to focus and do my job to protect people.

"It's something that will always stay with me and a day I won't ever forget."

He was presented with his award at the Wigan District Awards ceremony.

The offender, Charles McMurray, 36, of Satchel Close, Wigan, later admitted multiple counts of wounding with intent, threatening a person with a bladed article and threats to kill.

He was jailed for nine years and nine months.

Bolton Crown Court had been told McMurray chased the two men he stabbed towards the town centre and also threatened a passer‑by at Wigan bus station by holding a knife to the man's stomach.

A short time later, he again attacked one of the injured victims on Standishgate. He then chased after another member of the public with the knife, shouting he was going to kill him.

GMP said: "All victims survived the attack - a testament to the decisive and courageous actions taken on the night."

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