Man charged with attempted murder in Maidstone

A suspect has been charged with attempted murder following a reported assault in Maidstone.

Officers were called to the incident in Reculver Walk at 7.44am on Saturday 18 July 2026.

It is alleged the victim, who is in his early 50s, was assaulted and suffered injuries consistent with stab wounds before his white Sprinter van was stolen.

He was treated by South East Coast Ambulance Service and airlifted to a London hospital for further medical attention. He has since been discharged.

Patrols completed a search of the area and the victim's van was located in Woolley Road. A knife was also recovered in Reculver Walk.

Arrest

Further enquiries were undertaken and, later the same morning, a man was arrested by armed officers in Swanscombe.

Francisco Tsumba, 45, of no fixed address, was charged the following day with attempted murder and taking a vehicle without consent.

He appeared at Maidstone Magistrates' Court on Monday 20 July where he was remanded in custody. He is next due to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on 17 August 2026.

Investigators are appealing to witnesses who have not yet spoken to the police to contact them. Motorists with dashcam and residents with private CCTV are also asked to check for relevant footage.

Anyone with information should call 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/116700/26.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete their online form.