Police hunt for man, 25, after fatal stabbing of woman in Bradford

Police are searching for a 25-year-old man after the fatal stabbing of a woman who was attacked in Bradford city centre while pushing her baby in a pram.

West Yorkshire police are appealing for members of the public to report any sightings of Habibur Masum, who is from the Oldham area.

The 27-year-old woman, who has not yet been formally identified, was stabbed at about 3.20pm on Saturday in the Westgate area of Bradford, police said. She was taken to a hospital, where she died from her injuries.

Her baby, who was in a pram at the time of the attack, was not harmed. Investigators believe the woman and the attacker knew each other.

DCI Stacey Atkinson said: “We understand that the murder of a young woman in such shocking circumstances has caused considerable concern in the local community. Residents can expect to continue to see a significant police presence in Bradford as we make further inquiries and conduct reassurance patrols in the area.

A CCTV image of Habibur Masum. Photograph: West Yorkshire Police/PA

“We have had significant resources following up a number of lines of inquiry to locate Habibur Masum but at this time his whereabouts is unknown.”

Police described Masum as an Asian man of slim build. He was pictured on CCTV wearing a padded jacket with three large horizontal lines of grey, white and black; light blue or grey tracksuit bottoms with a small black emblem on the left pocket; and maroon trainers. A witness also reported seeing him wearing a grey hoodie.

“A knife was recovered from the scene of the murder, but we cannot say if Habibur Masum is armed, and I would urge anyone who does see him not to approach him but to call 999 immediately,” Atkinson said. “If anyone has any information about his movements or whereabouts since 3.20pm on Saturday please contact police as a matter of urgency.”

Any current sightings of Masum should be reported to West Yorkshire police via 999. Any other information that could assist the investigation should be reported via Live Chat online or by calling 101, quoting log 1071 of 6 April.

The Guardian