Joshua Donnelly, 22, from Middlesbrough, has been sentenced to four and a half years in prison after stabbing a bystander three times at Flamingo Land Resort in Kirby Misperton, North Yorkshire. The attack occurred shortly after 1am on Thursday, 18 September 2025, following a domestic dispute. Donnelly armed himself with a kitchen knife and targeted a holidaymaker who intervened.
Bladed Assault At Caravan Park
Donnelly was involved in an argument with his partner inside a caravan before leaving the site carrying a 4-inch kitchen knife. When a 38-year-old visitor from the Scottish Borders attempted to break up the dispute, Donnelly violently stabbed him repeatedly in the abdomen.
Victim Suffers Serious Injuries
The victim underwent emergency surgery after suffering a punctured colon. A victim impact statement detailed permanent nerve damage affecting his ability to work, as well as ongoing physical and psychological trauma.
Rapid Police Action
North Yorkshire Police launched a swift multi-force operation, arresting Donnelly near the Cleveland border later that day. The knife used in the attack was recovered by a park gardener from nearby bushes and forensically linked to Donnelly.
Court Admission And Sentencing
Donnelly pleaded guilty to wounding with intent under Section 18 at York Crown Court. Besides his prison sentence, he was ordered to pay a victim surcharge as part of his punishment.
