Teen Jailed for Brutal 51-Stab Attack on Neighbour in Town Centre Flat
A 19-year-old was locked up after stabbing his neighbour more than 50 times in a savage knife attack inside a town centre flat.
Haiden Tomlin, who lived in the same block on Fairmeadow, was sentenced to five years and nine months at maidstone/" title="Maidstone" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Maidstone Crown Court on Wednesday, 26 June.
Victim Miraculously Survives 51 Knife Wounds
Police rushed to the scene just before 3am on 1 September 2024 after reports of a disturbance.
- The victim was found slumped in the flat with 51 stab wounds.
- Injuries included a punctured lung and a broken rib.
- Despite this horrific attack, he was rushed to hospital and survived against the odds.
Tomlin fled before police arrived but was caught hiding nearby at 4.50am. Officers recovered a lock knife and multi-tool believed to have been used during the assault.
Trial Reveals Violent Confrontation; Self-Defence Claim Rejected
Tomlin pleaded not guilty to attempted murder, claiming self-defence. However, after a trial, he was convicted of the lesser charge of wounding with intent.
The judge highlighted the savage nature of the attack and the victim’s narrow escape when handing down the sentence.
Police Warn of Dangers of Knife Crime
“Tomlin argued his actions were in response to also being assaulted, however the sheer number of injuries he inflicted demonstrate a brutal and ferocious attack and one which the victim was fortunate to survive.” – Detective Constable Nell Shortis, kent.police.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="Kent Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Kent Police
“There can never be an excuse to carry weapons and any assault with a knife has the potential to end in tragedy. If you decide to carry a blade or associate with individuals that do, you put yourself at risk of being seriously injured or worse.”
Kent Police urge anyone who suspects someone of carrying a knife to report it by calling 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
This case is a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of knife crime and the importance of community vigilance.
