Masked knifeman ‘slashes man at home of Olivia Pratt-Korbel murder trial witness after breaking down door’
A MASKED knifeman slashed a man at the home of Thomas Cashman's "mate" after he backed the child killer in court.
Police were scrambled to the home in Merseyside after the suspect kicked the witness's door in.
The man was rushed to hospital after being attacked and received treatment for lacerations to his head, reports.
Merseyside Police have not confirmed whether the wounded man is the witness from the trial.
He gave evidence in favour of Cashman, who was jailed for life for murdering nine-year-old Olivia Pratt Korbel.
The witness told a jury his "mate" was "innocent" of shooting the youngster dead at her family home in Dovecot last August.
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When asked why he was in court, the witness replied: "Because I believe and know Thomas Cashman is innocent."
Forensic officers were seen at the man's home today as police launched a probe.
They confirmed the victim has been discharged from hospital.
Detective Inspector Michael Fletcher said: “This was a terrifying and violent attack on a man who has suffered significant cuts and wounds to his head.
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"The investigation is in its very early stages and I would like to reassure residents that our officers remain at the scene to investigate the attack.
“At this point we believe that the offender was armed with a sharp object and we are determined to find this and whoever was responsible for this frightening assault.
“The incident happened late last night when people would have been inside their homes therefore I would urge residents to think about what they may have seen, or heard, as it could be vital."
The officer urged anyone with doorbell footage or information to DM @MerPol or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting reference 23000724100.
