Knifeman who stabbed Croydon tram passenger eight times in ‘horror’ attack handed hospital order

A man who stabbed a stranger eight times with a kitchen knife on a tram in south London has been sentenced to an indefinite hospital order.

Andrew Mullings, 41 – who also had a meat cleaver in his bag – attacked Bright Chukwu on the service between Sandilands and Lloyd Park, near Croydon.

Mr Chukwu is lucky to “escape with his life” after the “horror” incident in front of terrified commuters, British Transport Police said.

He had noticed Mullings at the tram stop and as they both boarded, his way was blocked.

When the victim demanded an explanation, Mullings replied that he would kill him.

Once on the train, Mullings produced a knife and stabbed Mr Chukwu in the stomach.

Mullings then pursued the man who tried to move down the carriage to escape, repeatedly stabbing at him at around 6.45pm on July 18 last year.

Panicked passengers attempted to flee while Mr Chukwu suffered further face and leg wounds.

Once the victim had managed to get away, Mullings took a seat and engaged in conversation with two people before jumping off the service when it came to an emergency stop in a tunnel.

Mr Chukwu’s assailant was arrested by police shortly afterwards as he walked down the tramlines.

The attack happened on the Croydon tram service (Nick Ansell/PA) (PA Archive)

Officers found Mullings with a kitchen knife and meat cleaver in his bag. On forensic testing, the knife bore the blood of the victim.

Mr Chukwu sustained more than eight stab wounds to his face, abdomen arms and legs.

At Inner London Crown Court on Friday Mullings, of Dingwall Road, Croydon, pleaded guilty to wounding, possession of an offensive weapon and a bladed article.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Attwell, who led BTP’s investigation, 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.”