A family holiday turned into a nightmare when a 38-year-old father was stabbed three times at a popular caravan park in North Yorkshire. The victim, from the Scottish Borders, was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery after sustaining a punctured colon. Joshua Donnelly, 22, of Middlesbrough, pleaded guilty to Section 18 wounding with intent and was sentenced to four and a half years at York Crown Court on Friday, June 12.
The Attack
The incident occurred at Flamingo Land Resort in Kirby Misperton, near Pickering, just after 1 a.m. on Thursday, September 18, last year. Donnelly had been arguing with his partner when the victim stepped in to calm the situation. Donnelly retrieved a four-inch black-handled knife from the caravan's kitchen drawer and stabbed the victim three times in the abdomen. He then fled the scene as police arrived. Later that day, officers from Cleveland Police stopped a car carrying Donnelly and arrested him.
Court Proceedings
Police Investigator Liberty Ashton from Scarborough and Ryedale CID stated, “Due to the overwhelming evidence, he was left with very little option but to plead guilty to this terrible, vicious offence that could so easily have taken an innocent man’s life.” She added that the attack had a huge, long-term effect on the victim and his family, and she hoped the sentence would provide comfort.
Victim Impact
In a victim personal statement read in court, the father described how the holiday turned into a nightmare. His 15-year-old son has become withdrawn, terrified, and now completes schoolwork from home. The victim’s brother and his family were also deeply affected. The victim said he blames himself and struggles with mental health issues, including sleeplessness and reliving the event. His mobility has been impaired due to nerve damage in his right leg, affecting his ability to work and socialize. He and his partner faced financial difficulties, taking out a loan to cover expenses while he was off work.
The victim concluded, “I have not slept decently since the stabbing; my mind plays the events repeatedly. I relive it.” Despite no longer being on medication, the mental toll and physical effects persist. The family continues to cope with the aftermath of the senseless act.
