Brutal Axe Attack Lands Oxford Man in Life Jail
Taras Voinovich, 70, from Islip Road, Oxford, was locked up for life with a minimum 12-year jail term at Oxford Crown Court on Monday, June 26.
Violent Rampage with Axe Ends in Arrest
The jury found Voinovich guilty of two counts of wounding with intent, one count of assault causing actual bodily harm, and criminal damage. The verdict came after a tense trial that concluded on January 11.
It all kicked off at about 8.30am on July 28 last year when Voinovich showed up uninvited at the home of a man in his sixties on Aston Street. The pair had a past grudge.
Without warning, Voinovich hurled a brick through the window, forcing the victim outside.
When the victim asked if Voinovich had seen anything suspicious, the attacker gave no clear answer. Suddenly, Voinovich pulled a sheathed axe from his backpack and viciously struck the man repeatedly in the head.
Public Hero Tackles Attacker
The victim collapsed but the assault continued. His partner, also in her sixties, rushed to help — only to be attacked too.
Thankfully, passersby witnessed the brutal assault. One rugby-playing man in his sixties sprang into action, tackling and disarming Voinovich.
Others chased the attacker as he tried to flee. One brave soul snapped a photo of Voinovich on the run before police arrived and arrested him moments later.
Serious Injuries and Swift Justice
- The first victim suffered multiple fractured eye sockets and deep cuts to the head.
- His partner sustained serious injuries.
- The Good Samaritan who tackled Voinovich had minor injuries.
Voinovich was charged the very next day, July 29.
Detective Constable Fritha Harvey of the Priority Crime Team said: “This was a terrifying and horrific incident for all involved that could have been even worse if not for the bravery of the victim’s wife and members of the public.”
“Response officers arrested the suspect minutes after the attack. The Priority Crime Team swiftly took over the investigation, leading to Voinovich being brought to justice.”
