Bodmin stabbings: murder probe launched after one dead and 7 injured outside Cornwall nightclub

A murder investigation has been launched after one man died and at least seven others needed hospital treatment after a stabbing frenzy in Cornwall.

Rugby player Michael Allen, 36, has been named locally as the victim who died during a huge outbreak of violence in the early hours of Sunday morning in Bodmin.

Police were called to Victoria Square, at 3.15am on Sunday following reports of a "serious altercation." Officers said someone was reported in possession of a knife and that multiple people had sustained suspected stab wounds.

At least seven others were taken to hospital after the incident suffering stab wounds with injuries ranging from ‘serious’ to ‘minor,’ although none were described as life threatening.

The alleged attack happened near Eclipse nightclub, which closes on Saturdays at 3am. Mr Allen, who lived in Bodmin and was a popular player at the local rugby club, was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 24-year-old man from Bodmin has been arrested on suspicion of murder, attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He remains in police custody at this time.

Friends and family paid tribute to Mr Allen, who was described as a “legend”. One family member wrote: “What a horrible world we live in, Michael, love you always cuz. He really was the kindest, most gentle man. He will be very missed.”

Another friend said: “You were a great funny guy Michael Allen, an absolute legend, heart of gold. Rest in peace big man absolutely gutted.”

Bodmin Rugby Club confirmed he was a player there but said they were not yet ready to issue a statement or tribute.

Pictures taken today (1 May) show a police cordon that remains around the scene outside Eclipse nightclub. Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that some of those caught up in the incident had been in the Eclipse nightclub earlier in the evening - but said the attack itself happened outside.

Det Insp Ilona Rosson from the Major Crime Investigation Team said: “At this time we are treating this as an isolated matter and we are not seeking anyone else in connection to this incident.

“This is a live and active police investigation, and I would urge people not to speculate on social media but if you have information which may assist us, please report it.”

East Cornwall local policing Supt Rob Youngman said: “This investigation is in its early stages and the public can expect to see a heightened policing presence around Bodmin today whilst enquiries are ongoing.

“Understandably this incident will have an impact on the local community, and our thoughts are with the families of the victims. Cordons will stay in place today whilst officers gather information and evidence from the scene.

“Anyone who has not yet been spoken to by officers and has any information which may assist our investigation, please get in touch. This could include any relevant dash-cam, mobile/video phone and CCTV footage from the area of Victoria Square and along Castle Canyke Road.”

Supt Youngman said it was not currently known what the relationship was between the arrested suspect and the victim and they were still trying to establish a motive.

He added: “At this moment in time we are working to continue to understand the motivation behind this incident. The relationship, if any, between those involved is not clear at this stage.

“We believe some members of the group who were injured had been in Eclipse nightclub. They were then outside in Castle Canyke Road when the incident happened.”

If you witnessed the incident or have any information, including footage that could help with enquiries, please contact police via the Major Incident Public Portal.