Attackers who left a young man fighting for his life with a "significant" stab wound remain at large almost 24 hours on from the violent incident.
A large search of the East Preston area was launched by police yesterday afternoon after a 20-year-old man was airlifted to hospital in a "critical condition".
The victim's injuries were initially thought to be "life-threatening", but he is now said to be in a stable condition in hospital. Enquiries to find two suspects are ongoing.
Sussex Police were called to Sea Road at 4pm following a report of two men attacking a man.
Officers soon arrived at the scene, finding the 20-year-old victim with a stab wound to the abdomen.
He was airlifted to hospital as officers cordoned off a section of the road and set about scouring the area for two suspects.
The police helicopter was called to assist as teams continued to search into the evening.
In a statement issued shortly before 2pm today, Sussex Police said officers were still working to identify the two suspects and urged anyone with information on the attack which could assist their investigation to come forward.
Detective Inspector Kim May said: "Our investigation is progressing quickly as our teams are working around the clock to establish the circumstances of this incident and identify the two suspects.
"We continue to appeal to anyone who saw what happened or any suspicious behaviour in the area such as two suspects running away.
"Please be assured that this event is being treated as isolated and not linked to any other incident.
"There is nothing at this stage to suggest that there is any threat to the wider community."
DI May said there would be an increased police presence in the town as enquiries continued, with "proactive patrols" over the next few days.
District Commander, Chief Inspector Jon Carter said: "We understand that this incident may cause concern and we would like to assure the public that this matter is being investigated as a priority.
"Violence will absolutely not be tolerated and we are committed to taking robust action against those who cause harm and keeping the local community safe."
Anyone with any information, or who witnessed anything suspicious in the area, can report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Treble.
People can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
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