Teen Hammer Attack Shocks Devon Boarding School
A chilling attack rocked Blundell’s School in Tiverton, Devon, when a 17-year-old boy launched a savage assault on two students and a teacher. Armed with claw hammers, the teen struck in the dormitories, leaving life-changing injuries in his wake.
Brutal Hammer Assault in Dormitory
The court heard the horrifying details at Exeter Crown Court. The defendant, then 16, struck on the night of June 9 last year. He targeted two sleeping boys, aged 15 and 16, smashing their skulls with three claw hammers. Both victims suffered grave wounds and now face permanent cognitive damage.
Staff housemaster Henry Roffe-Silvester, 38, also became a victim when he tried to intervene. He too was hospitalised but has since been discharged.
Meticulously Planned Attack
Prosecutor James Dawes KC told the court the attack was premeditated. The teenager waited until his victims were asleep before striking repeatedly, inflicting serious bleeding and grievous bodily harm.
Thankfully, a quick-thinking student raised the alarm, summoning emergency services. Prompt medical care saved lives, though the injuries have left irreversible damage.
Defendant’s Bizarre Claims as Trial Continues
Throughout the ongoing trial, the accused has offered inconsistent excuses, including sleepwalking and stress. Witnesses said he apologised and seemed shocked by his actions. He bizarrely blamed horror films and a “zombie apocalypse” for having the hammers.
The court is still probing the full motive and extent of the horrific attack at one of Devon’s top private schools.
