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The officer, who works for Essex Police, suffered serious stab wounds to his chest after the suspect “knocked on the door” of an address and butchered him. He was also slashed in his arm and stomach at the address in Church Road, located between Southend-on-Sea and Chelmsford. He was rushed to hospital last night, when the attack happened.

An Essex Police spokeswoman said: “The victim was taken to hospital where he has undergone treatment and remains in a serious but stable condition. "A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder and is currently in custody. “At this time detectives believe the incident was targeted and isolated and there is no wider risk to the local community. We are not seeking anyone else in connection with this incident.”

The officer, who works for Essex Police, suffered serious stab wounds

The incident happened in Church Road

Residents expressed their shock at the incident, adding that several police cars and ambulances rushed to the scene. One woman, who wanted to remain anonymous, told Essex Live: ”There is an awful lot of knife crime going on now, especially between youngsters. I have a lot of respect for Essex police so the fact it’s happened to an officer is awful. “I saw all the blue lights and police but this is such a quiet area, many if us keep ourselves to ourselves.”