Wigan Woman Jailed For Life After Brutal Knife and Boiling Water Attack
Awa Zongo, from Atherton Road, Hindley Green, Wigan, was handed a life sentence at Manchester Crown Court today. The 29-year-old must serve at least seven years before she can apply for parole. She pleaded guilty to a vicious section 18 assault.
Shocking Attack Caught Police Off Guard
On the morning of Saturday 14 December 2019, police rushed to Atherton Road following reports of a violent disturbance. Officers spotted Zongo stumbling out of a property before dramatically throwing herself to the ground, pretending to collapse.
Victim Found With Knife Stuck in Throat
Paramedics treated the victim—a woman in her 40s—inside an ambulance. A knife was lodged deep in her neck, with only the handle visible. The attack left her with over 30 superficial stab wounds across her neck, chest, abdomen, and thighs. Horrifyingly, she had also suffered severe burns covering up to 20% of her body after boiling water was thrown over her.
Zongo herself was treated for minor injuries. During treatment, a crochet hook was found around her neck and handed to police.
Police Support Victim’s Road to Recovery
One officer accompanied the victim to hospital, where emergency surgery saved her life by repairing damage to her carotid artery. Another officer escorted Zongo, who was later arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Detective Constable Danny Ritchie of GMP’s Wigan Division said: “The victim in this barbarous attack is incredibly lucky to be alive. Thankfully, the serious wound she sustained wasn’t fatal and I hope she can feel some closure after today’s verdict.”
“This terrifying ordeal has deeply affected her both physically and mentally. Though she will never forget what happened, knowing her attacker is behind bars should help her move on with her life.”
