Brave Public Intervenes to Stop Ex-Teacher's Knife Frenzy
This is the dramatic moment courageous bystanders leapt into action to halt a frenzied knife attack launched by a former mathematics teacher outside a popular supermarket.
Violent Sunday Afternoon Incident
Azzeddine Mahmoudi, 46, from Southampton, has been sentenced to two-and-a-half years imprisonment at Southampton Crown Court after pleading guilty to multiple charges. These included two counts of unlawful wounding, one count of affray, and two counts of possession of a bladed article.
The terrifying incident unfolded on Sunday, August 3, outside an Aldi supermarket where Mahmoudi brandished a long kitchen knife. Shocking CCTV footage captured the former teacher pursuing individuals, including one person with a scooter, along the pavement in what authorities described as a prolonged and frenzied attack.
Heroic Public Response
During the assault, several members of the public demonstrated extraordinary bravery by attempting to contain and corral Mahmoudi, leading him away from busier areas. A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman confirmed that these individuals acted without hesitation for their own safety.
"As the 46-year-old ran around with a long kitchen knife in his hand, several members of the public bravely sought to contain and coral him, leading him away from the busiest areas," the spokesman stated. "A court heard one of those brave people 'wasn't trying to be a hero' but they 'just wanted to help.'"
Injuries and Aftermath
The attack left two people with serious but thankfully non-life-threatening injuries. The first victim sustained cuts to his head and arm, while the second man suffered injuries to his hand. Authorities confirmed Mahmoudi had attempted to assault five additional people during the incident.
When police officers arrived at the scene, Mahmoudi was subdued using incapacitant spray and subsequently arrested. During a search, officers discovered a second, smaller knife in his possession.
Court Sentencing and Impact
Sentencing Mahmoudi, Judge William Mousley KC emphasized the widespread fear caused by his actions. "The situation you created caused panic, with many members of the public, including children, fearing for their safety," Judge Mousley told the defendant. "I am satisfied this was part of a prolonged incident. A number of witnesses have discussed the ongoing anxiety this has caused them."
Detective Constable Ryan Mitchell praised the public's response, stating: "Azzeddine Mahmoudi launched a frenzied attack which was terrifying for all involved and those in the vicinity, when all they were trying to do was go about their business on a sunny summer's afternoon. The fact no-one was more seriously hurt or died as a result of this attack is in no small part thanks to the heroic actions of those members of the public, who, without a second thought for their own safety, bravely stepped in to help those around them and prevent him from sustaining his attacks much further before police arrived."
The court heard that Mahmoudi had been suffering from mental health issues for several years prior to the attack. His sentencing brings closure to a traumatic event that disrupted what should have been a peaceful Sunday afternoon for Southampton residents.
