Knife attacker jailed for life after brutal Dartford stabbing spree
Brutal Town Centre Stabbing Shocks Dartford
Eric Da Silva-Soares, 29, launched a savage knife attack on 31 August 2024 in Spital Street, Dartford. Obsessed with a woman who spurned him, he warned her by phone he would kill her if she stayed with her partner. Moments later, he appeared carrying a bag before pulling out a knife and launching into a terrifying assault.
Three Victims Stabbed in Frightening Attack
- The woman, in her 20s, was stabbed in the stomach and arm.
- Her partner, who tried to shield her, suffered multiple stab wounds including in the face.
- Their friend, who tried to intervene, was stabbed in the back.
The trio fled to a nearby fast food restaurant where staff quickly locked the doors, stopping Da Silva-Soares in his tracks. But he managed to escape the scene.
Failed Escape and Daring Police Arrest at Airport
Police launched a major manhunt as Da Silva-Soares attempted to flee the country. On 1 September, he shockingly texted the woman, admitting his actions were “unforgivable.”
He was caught red-handed on 2 September at Edinburgh Airport, moments before boarding a flight. kent.police.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="Kent Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Kent Police detectives gave the order to detain the violent offender.
Life Behind Bars: Swift Justice Served
Da Silva-Soares, from Wharfside Close, Erith, London, pled guilty at Woolwich Crown Court to two counts of attempted murder and unlawful wounding. On Friday 7 March 2025, he was handed life imprisonment with a minimum 12 years and 10 months before parole eligibility.
Detective Chief Inspector Emma Lawry said: “This was an appalling, unprovoked assault on three young people enjoying a night out in Dartford. Da Silva-Soares came to the town armed with a knife, intent on violence, and inflicted shocking injuries.”
“The bravery of the two men who tried to tackle him and the courage of all the victims during our investigation is commendable. Da Silva-Soares is clearly a dangerous individual, and it’s right he faces a lengthy prison sentence.”
This savage attack underscores the devastating impact of knife crime and police’s relentless pursuit to bring offenders to justice.
