Thames Vally Police are appealing for witnesses after a teenage boy was left with a fractured vertebrae in an assault on Thursday, around 5.15pm.
The victim, a boy in his late teens, was assaulted by another person with a weapon in Honiton Road and chased into Northumberland Avenue.
A 17-year-old boy from Reading was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. He has been released on bail.
The weapon has been described as either a baseball bat or an axe.
Investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Alexander Willis, based at Reading police station, said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident to please come forward.
“You can make a report by calling 101 or via the Thames Valley Police website.
“Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via its website.”
