The 41-year-old will now spend an indefinite time in hospital
A Croydon man who stabbed an innocent tram passenger more than eight times has been handed a hospital order. Andrew Paul Mullings, of Dingwall Road, attacked his victim close to the Sandilands stop on July 18 last year after a brief interaction.
The 41-year-old had blocked the man’s path as he attempted to board and when asked why, Mullings replied that he would kill him. Once on the tram, he produced a kitchen knife from his bag and stabbed the victim in the abdomen.
The terrified man attempted to flee down the carriage but was stabbed again, this time in the face and legs. Panicked passengers watched on in horror as they too tried to escape.
After the frenzied attack, Mullings sat down and chatted to two trapped passengers before running away when the service came to an emergency stop between Sandilands and Lloyd Park. He was arrested on the tram lines shortly afterwards.
Officers discovered the bloodied knife in his bag, with DNA testing later proving to match that of the victim. Mullings was also in possession of an unused meat cleaver.
Today (October 10), he pleaded guilty to wounding, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of a bladed article at Inner London Crown Court. The judge sentenced him to an indefinite hospital order, meaning he will not serve prison time at this stage.
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Paul Attwell, of the British Transport Police, said: “This was a terrifying incident for both the victim and other passengers who watched on in horror as Mullings carried out a sustained knife attack on an innocent stranger. Given his extensive injuries the victim was lucky to escape with his life.
“While incidents like this on the railway are extremely rare we encourage all passengers who see or experience crime to report it to us so we can take action. They can discreetly report crimes or concerns via text 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40. In an emergency, always call 999.”
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