Man Stabbed in Heart in Brutal Chapeltown Attack
Kaiden Williams plunged a knife into 29-year-old Peter Wass’s chest during a vicious assault on Hamilton Avenue, Chapeltown, just after 2:30pm on March 2.
Williams stabbed Mr Wass three times, leaving a 22cm-deep wound that pierced his heart.
Passersby Rush Victim to Hospital
Members of the public sprang into action, hauling the seriously injured Mr Wass into a car and speeding to get help.
They flagged down an ambulance on nearby Spencer Place, where a doctor and paramedics gave emergency treatment before rushing him to Leeds General Infirmary.
Tragically, Mr Wass was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Murder Probe and Hunt for suspect
West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team launched a murder investigation immediately.
CCTV revealed Mr Wass had been a passenger in a BMW convoy when he got into a street confrontation with a man wielding a large knife. A baseball bat lay near Mr Wass after the attack.
The attacker then fled the scene. Police identified him as 22-year-old Kaiden Williams from Harehills.
Williams was tracked down to Hartlepool, over 100 miles away, and was arrested by armed officers from Cleveland Police on March 12.
Court Sentences Killer to 14 Years
Back in Leeds, Williams was charged with murder and possession of a knife. He pleaded not guilty, claiming self-defence.
At Leeds Crown Court, the jury cleared him of murder but convicted him of manslaughter. He had already admitted possessing the offensive weapon.
Today at Sheffield Crown Court, Williams was handed a 14-year extended sentence: nine years behind bars plus a five-year extended licence upon release.
Detective Chief Inspector Sam Freeman said: “Although Peter Wass was involved in the confrontation, no one deserves to lose their life so suddenly and violently.
“The impact on his family, including his two children, is heartbreaking — no matter the circumstances.
“His death starkly highlights the tragic results when knives are carried and used.”
