A man has been detained under a hospital order after being found guilty of attempted murder following a brutal attack on a busy street in Devizes last summer.
Kubilay Bostanli, 27, of Anzio Road, Devizes, was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on Friday, 25 April 2025, after being convicted by a jury in January. He was also given an indefinite restraining order and sentenced for assaulting an emergency worker during the same incident.
The attack happened around 12.30pm on 29 June 2024, when Bostanli violently assaulted a man in his 20s near Sidmouth Street. After an initial attack inside a butcher’s shop, Bostanli chased the victim onto Estcourt Street, where police arrived to intervene. In the struggle to arrest him, Bostanli assaulted a police officer by grabbing her by the hair.
The victim suffered two stab wounds to the neck, along with facial and ear injuries. Thanks to swift medical treatment and the intervention of three members of the public who provided first aid, the man survived.
Detective Constable Jo Newbery from CID said:
“This was a sustained and terrifying attack during which the victim fought for his life. Kubilay Bostanli used extreme violence against his victim, witnessed by a large number of people given the time of day and location. I’d like to thank the victim for his bravery and the members of the public who helped save his life.”
PC Crabbe, who responded to the scene, was recognised earlier this month with a commendation from former High Sheriff Dr Olivia Chapple for her bravery. Chief Superintendent Guy Elkins praised her efforts, saying:
“Without her bravery, Bostanli’s victim would almost certainly not be alive today.”
PC Crabbe has also been nominated for a Police Bravery Award, with winners to be announced at a ceremony in London in July.
Wiltshire Police have encouraged anyone concerned about violence, their safety, or the safety of someone they know to report concerns by calling 999 in emergencies, 101 for non-urgent matters, or using the Wiltshire Police website. Support is also available via Crimestoppers or Fearless for those who prefer to report anonymously.