Knife Horror in Bournemouth: Man Admits Attempted Murder of Three Women
Mark Robert Williams, 37, from Cecil Road, Bournemouth, shocked the court by admitting to two counts of attempted murder, two counts of false imprisonment, grievous bodily harm with intent, and sexual assault by penetration. His chilling crimes unfolded on 18 February 2021, with sentencing set for 7 May 2021 at Bournemouth Crown Court.
Brutal Attacks at Maxwell Road and Vale Road
At 8.08pm on 18 February, Dorset Police were called to Maxwell Road where a woman in her 40s lay with horrific wounds—a slash to her throat and abdomen, plus a puncture wound to her thigh. A teenage girl at the scene also bore a deep cut across her cheek.
Witnesses told officers that Williams forced his way in, bound the victims, gagged them, and threatened their lives. During the ordeal, the teenage girl was sexually assaulted.
The woman was airlifted to hospital in critical condition. The teen was taken for urgent treatment. Williams was no stranger to the woman.
Second Attack Hours Later
Just before midnight, police rushed to Vale Road after reports of a woman screaming. A woman in her 30s was found with a severe cut to her throat and urgently required surgery after being flown to hospital.
Williams Caught Covered in Blood
In the early hours of 19 February, Dorset Police spotted Williams behaving suspiciously on Old Christchurch Road. Bloodied and resigned, he confessed immediately, leading to his arrest.
Detective Inspector Wayne Seymour said: “These were nasty, horrific attacks that left two women fighting for their lives and a teenage girl with serious injuries. Thanks to the swift police action, Williams was arrested before he could hurt anyone else.”
He praised the remarkable courage of the victims, adding: “We take all violence and sexual assault reports seriously. We work tirelessly with the justice system to keep the public safe and bring offenders like Williams to account.”
Previous Contacts and Ongoing Probe
Dorset Police had prior dealings with both Williams and one of the victims. The case is now under investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), with full police cooperation assured.
