Croydon Man Locked Up After Brutal Tram Knife Attack
A 41-year-old man from Croydon has been jailed under an indefinite hospital order after launching a savage knife attack on a stranger aboard a tram.
Knife Rampage Terrifies Tram Passengers
Andrew Paul Mullings, from Dingwall Road, Croydon, pleaded guilty to wounding, carrying an offensive weapon, and possession of a bladed article. The shocking attack unfolded on 18 July last year and was investigated by British Transport Police. Mullings was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court on Friday, 10 October.
The victim noticed Mullings waiting at Sandilands tram stop. As the tram arrived, Mullings stepped in front of him and hissed, “I will kill you.” Without warning, he plunged a knife into the man’s abdomen. The victim tried to escape along the carriage, but Mullings chased him, slashing at his face and legs. Passengers fled in horror.
Chilling Calm Before the Escape
After the brutal attack, Mullings sat down and casually chatted with other passengers. He only fled when the tram made an emergency stop inside a tunnel between Sandilands and Lloyd Park stops.
Police caught Mullings shortly after, walking along the tram tracks nearby. Investigators found a kitchen knife and a meat cleaver in his bag. Forensic testing confirmed the knife was covered in the victim’s blood.
Victim Lucky to Survive Multiple Stab Wounds
The victim suffered over eight stab wounds to his face, abdomen, arms, and legs but survived.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Attwell said: “This was a terrifying incident for both the victim and other passengers who watched 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.”
