Drunk Attacker Smashes Glass Bottle Over Couple’s Heads in Broad Daylight Brawl
Matthew Parry, 35, from Margate, was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court after brutally attacking a man and woman in their 30s with a broken glass bottle. The shocking assault happened just after 1.50am on Sunday, 21 April 2019, as the couple walked along Old Christchurch Road.
Intoxicated Parry Loses It Over Dropped Phone
The victims passed Parry, who was swaying and clearly drunk. Parry appeared to drop his phone and promptly accused the woman of breaking it. Despite their attempts to walk away, Parry followed, shouting and daring the man to fight. As they crossed Lansdowne Roundabout into Christchurch Road, Parry ripped off his T-shirt, ready to tussle.
Violent Bottle Attack Outside Zephyr Bar
The couple tried to keep their distance, but outside Zephyr bar the woman suddenly felt a sharp blow to her head. Blood trickled down her neck. She flagged down police, who found a smashed glass bottle at the scene. The same bottle hit the male victim’s head, causing a painful laceration with permanent nasal bone damage.
Taxi Driver’s Quick Thinking Helps Nab Attacker
The man gave chase as Parry fled towards Meyrick Road. Thanks to a passing taxi driver who helped follow Parry, police caught up and detained him near St Swithun’s Roundabout.
“This was an unprovoked violent assault on a man and woman who were simply trying to enjoy a night out,” said Detective Constable Steph Ashworth. “The male victim has been left with lasting damage as a result.” She added, “I would like to thank the taxi driver for his quick thinking and willingness to help. Because of him and the fast police response, Parry was caught and held accountable.”
Both victims needed stitches for their head wounds. The brutal attack has left scars—both visible and permanent.
