Staffordshire Police are investigating a serious altercation involving machetes, knives and batons on Smithpool Road, Fenton, following reports of a large group chasing each other on 11 April. No suspects have been found and no serious injuries were reported.
A significant altercation involving weapons occurred on Smithpool Road in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, on the evening of 11 April. Staffordshire Police responded to reports of a large fight in which groups of individuals were seen chasing each other while armed with machetes, knives, and batons.
The police were alerted at approximately 6.15pm after residents observed a series of confrontations on the street and the presence of multiple police vehicles attending the scene was noted. Upon arrival, officers conducted an extensive search of the area but did not locate any suspects or confiscate any weapons.
A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police commented, "We are appealing for information following a large fight with weapons in Stoke-on-Trent. We were called to Smithpool Road, Fenton, following reports of a large group chasing each other with machetes, knives and batons. Officers carried out a thorough search of the area but no suspects or weapons were identified. No serious injuries were reported."
The force has now issued a public appeal for witnesses who may have information about the incident to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation into the disorder. Authorities have confirmed that no serious injuries resulted from the disturbance.
Source: Noah Wire Services
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
8
Notes:
The article appears to be a recent incident from April, but without more context or updates, it is difficult to confirm if this is new information or a rehashed report. However, the specific date and details suggest it might be a recent event.
Quotes check
Score:
7
Notes:
The quote provided from a spokesperson for Staffordshire Police seems authentic, but without further evidence, it is hard to confirm it as the earliest known reference.
Source reliability
Score:
9
Notes:
The narrative originates from The Stoke Sentinel, a reputable local news outlet, which generally covers events accurately. However, verification from other sources is recommended for full confirmation.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The incident described is plausible given the context of a reported large fight with weapons. Lack of evidence does not automatically invalidate the claim, and the specifics align with common scenarios involving street violence.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative appears recent and well-sourced, with a plausible description of the incident. The reliability of the source enhances the credibility of the story, although further verification of specific details could strengthen confidence.
