Police commend the heroism of people who helped stabbing victim

FOUR people have been commended by South Yorkshire Police for their bravery and compassion after trying to save the life of a young father who had been stabbed in Yorkshire.

Daniel Micska, 28, was stabbed to death by Daniel Balazs who fled the scene on August 9, 2023, in Barnsley.

As Mr Micskalay bleeding in the middle of Newton Street and begged for someone to call an ambulance, a band of residents rushed out to help the father-of-two.

Jonathan Maw, Elaine Priestley, Gillian Austin and Michelle Dyson all came to assist as they tried to stop the bleeding and comfort him before paramedics arrived at the scene to provide first aid.

Mr Micska died of his injuries that same evening.

However, police said the actions of the four did not go unnoticed and now they have all been recognised and presented with commendations for the actions they took in the fight to try and save Daniel's life.

The commendation reads: "Immediately after the stabbing, you attended to the victim and fought to save his life. You went into a chaotic and frightening scene.

"You did your best to try and stop the bleeding and you gave care to

Daniel, who was dying from his injuries. You acted selflessly, with courage and compassion. Your actions gave comfort to Daniel's family, who know that you fought to save his life. You are commended for your actions on that night."

They were presented with their commendation certificates on April 18 by Detective Chief Superintendent Becs Horsfall in a ceremony at Churchfields Police Station in Barnsley.

Mr Micska brother Karoly Micska attended the ceremony to thank the four residents for their efforts that night.

He told them: "I don't know how I could ever repay you for what you have done."

Speaking after the event, Det Chief Supt Horsfall said: "It was an incredibly emotional afternoon and I know everyone in that room wished the outcome of that night in August last year could have been different.

"However, I know Daniel's family found comfort from knowing a community like that one in Newton Street continues to exist.

Balazs, 22, of Heelis Street, Barnsley, was found guilty of murder in February and was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 20 years behind bars.