PC Honored for ‘Exceptional Bravery’ in Stopping Wigan Knifeman

Greater Manchester Police officer PC Thomas Fairbrother‑Wilcock has been commended for his “exceptional bravery” after he halted a knifeman who had chased members of the public in Wigan town centre. The incident occurred on 5 August 2025 at around 06:45 BST, when the officer responded to an alert that a man had stabbed two people in a taxi office. Fairbrother‑Wilcock was confronted by several members of the public running towards him, many crying, injured, and covered in blood.

The officer relied on his training and tactical communication skills to safely detain the offender. The force praised his “calm, courageous decision making” and said his actions required him to put himself directly in harm’s way. Fairbrother‑Wilcock downplayed his role, praising PC Lisa Naylor who supported him. “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,” he said. He 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.”

The attacker, Charles McMurray, 36, of Satchel Close, Wigan, later admitted multiple charges including wounding with intent and threats to kill. He was jailed for nine years and nine months at Bolton Crown Court. The court heard McMurray chased the two men he stabbed and threatened a passer-by at Wigan bus station. GMP said all victims survived, calling it a testament to the decisive actions taken that night.

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