Man Guilty of Attempted Murder in Shocking Knife Attack on Officer
A Preston man has been found guilty of attempted murder after launching a brutal knife attack on a British Transport Police Special Constable at Preston railway station.
Russel Smith, 54, of Shakespeare Road, Preston, was convicted of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article at Preston Crown Court on Thursday, February 7, 2025. He faces sentencing on Monday, April 14, 2025.
Unprovoked Stab in the Back During Festival Policing
The assault happened at 9:30pm on September 7, 2024, during a policing operation at the Radio 2 Summer Festival. The officer was speaking to members of the public about their travel plans when Smith crept up behind him.
Smith had a kitchen knife concealed in his trouser pocket. He followed the officer outside the station, standing right behind him. Suddenly, Smith plunged the blade into the back of the officer’s neck.
Quick-Thinking Colleagues Save Officer’s Life
The officer fell forward from the blow, desperately trying to crawl away. Hearing the screams, another officer rushed to the scene, forcing Smith to back off. The attacker was then subdued with captor spray, handcuffed, and detained.
The victim was left with a puncture wound to his thoracic spine. Police confirmed it was only luck that spared him from a fatal or life-altering injury.
Disturbing Behaviour and Police Condemnation
After his arrest, Smith smeared his own faeces on his cell walls and threatened more violence. He even asked whether his victim had died.
A British Transport Police spokesperson slammed the “premeditated and heinous attack”:
“This was a premeditated and heinous attack on an officer who was simply doing his job, ensuring the safety of the public. The swift response of his colleagues prevented a potential tragedy.”
Smith now faces a lengthy prison sentence when he is sentenced in April.
