A 25-year-old man is fighting for his life after allegedly being stabbed in the head with a screwdriver at a construction site in Wiltshire.
Jamie Chappell was rushed to hospital following the incident in Purton on Thursday, July 23, where he underwent a five-hour surgical operation during which doctors removed part of his skull.
Man Charged with Grievous Bodily Harm
James Denys, 36, has been charged with grievous bodily harm following what Wiltshire Police described as a "serious assault". Paying tribute to Mr Chappell, his family said he had set off for work expecting it to be "like any other day".
A family spokesperson told the Swindon Advertiser: "Jamie is one of the kindest, most gentle souls you could ever meet. He left for work on the morning of Thursday 23rd July like any other day, never imagining that within hours he would be fighting for his life."
Ongoing Battle
"Today Jamie remains critically ill. Every hour is a battle and our family continues to live with the uncertainty, fear and heartbreak that no family should ever have to endure," the spokesperson added.
Emergency services were summoned to a construction site in Widham Gardens, Purton, where Mr Chappell sustained the severe injuries. He was taken to Southmead Hospital for immediate treatment.
Officers initially launched an attempted murder investigation before charging Denys, of Ravensdale, East Wichel, with grievous bodily harm. He appeared at Swindon Magistrates' Court and was remanded in custody.
Police Appeal
A second person, aged 36, who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, has since been released on bail while enquiries continue. Detective Chief Inspector Deb Hatch described the attack as a "serious incident" and said her thoughts are with Mr Chappell's family and friends.
Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. Anyone who can help is asked to call Wiltshire Police on 101, quoting the relevant incident, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
