‘I’m Going to Kill You’: Teenage Attacker Sentenced
A 14-year-old girl who carried out a frenzied stabbing at her school in Carmarthenshire, injuring two teachers and a fellow pupil, has been sentenced to 15 years in detention. The girl, who was 13 at the time of the attack at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman in Ammanford, was convicted of attempted murder after launching the horrifying assault with a multitool knife on April 24, 2023.
Attack Motivated by Fame Fantasy
The court heard that the teen had fantasised about becoming a “celebrity” through the violent act, telling police after her arrest: “That’s one way to be a celebrity.” She also asked officers “Are they dead?” and chillingly added, “Oopsies” and “I stabbed her” in the back of the police van. During the trial, it emerged she had warned classmates she planned to “do something stupid” and named one of the victims, Mrs Fiona Elias, beforehand.
Violent Assault Left Teacher Seriously Injured
The most seriously injured of the victims, teacher Liz Hopkins, suffered stab wounds to her neck, leg, chest and under her shoulder blade. Ms Hopkins had intervened in an effort to stop the attack but was overpowered and later airlifted to hospital in Cardiff. Her colleague, Mrs Elias, and a fellow pupil also sustained injuries. All three have since recovered, but the emotional trauma remains significant.
Chilling Footage Played in Court
CCTV showed the girl sitting quietly behind a curtain in the school hall for nearly half an hour before approaching Ms Elias. After a short conversation, she followed her outside, waited with her hands in her pockets, then suddenly pulled the knife and began her assault. Other staff rushed to help and managed to restrain her, but she broke free and stabbed another pupil.
Taken Knife from Father’s Toolbox
It was revealed that the girl had taken the multitool knife from her father’s toolbox. In a disturbing clip, she could be seen stabbing the blade into the floor before the attack. Prosecutors said her behaviour was premeditated and attention-seeking, with her motive rooted in a desire for notoriety.
Judge Condemns Premeditated Violence
The sentencing judge described the incident as “a cold, calculated and deeply disturbing act of violence” that left lasting scars on a school community. The judge noted the girl had shown awareness of the consequences and continued with the attack anyway. A long custodial sentence was necessary both for public protection and as a message about escalating violence in schools.
No Winners in the Aftermath
All victims have been praised for their bravery, and the court acknowledged the lasting impact on pupils and staff. The case adds to growing concerns about violence in UK schools and the availability of weapons to children. Due to her age, the attacker cannot be named.
