A teenager has sustained injuries described as potentially life-changing after an unknown substance was thrown at him following a verbal altercation in Manchester. The incident occurred near the Arndale Shopping Centre on Sept. 12, 2026, at approximately 6:10 p.m. local time.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) responded to reports of a disturbance in Exchange Square. Upon arrival, officers found that a male in his mid-teens had a substance thrown at him by another man. Emergency services, including paramedics and the fire brigade, attended the scene. The victim was taken to a local hospital, where his injuries are not considered life-threatening but could have long-term effects.
Witnesses reported seeing the teenager being hosed down by the fire brigade before being taken to the hospital. He was reportedly topless when he left the scene in an ambulance.
Following the incident, a 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault. He remains in custody as investigations continue. GMP has appealed for anyone with information, including CCTV, mobile phone, or dashcam footage, to come forward. The police have established a scene at the location as part of their ongoing inquiry.