In a harrowing testimony at Swansea Crown Court, the deputy head teacher of Ysgol Dyffryn Aman recounted the traumatic events that unfolded on April 29th this year. The deputy head described witnessing a girl stabbing one of her pupils with a knife in the school yard, leading to screams and chaos. The accused, a 14-year-old girl whose identity is protected due to her age, is charged with attempting to murder two teachers, Fiona Elias and Liz Hopkin, along with a pupil.
The trial heard evidence from deputy head teacher Alexandra McNeill, who detailed the chilling moments when the attack took place. She described finding her colleague Liz Hopkin stabbed in the yard after an alert from a distressed teaching assistant. McNeill recounted encountering the defendant with a knife, exhibiting a blank and calm demeanor during the violent episode. The witness described the girl stabbing a female pupil in the back, causing panic and injuries.
As the situation escalated, staff intervened to restrain the attacker, leading to a swift response to implement a “code red” lockdown at the school. McNeill rushed to aid her injured colleague Liz Hopkin, whose injuries were severe, with blood saturating her clothing. The witness also attended to Fiona Elias and the injured pupil, who were receiving medical treatment on-site. The court heard from other witnesses, including teaching assistant Keira Davies, who corroborated the traumatic events that transpired.
The trial further revealed details about the defendant’s background, including prior incidents involving a knife found in her possession. The court heard insights from the defendant’s father, acknowledging challenges his daughter faced at school, including bullying and feeling overwhelmed by social pressures. The prosecution argues that the defendant intended to kill when using the multi-tool to inflict harm on the victims, while the defendant denies three counts of attempted murder.
The victims, Liz Hopkin and the injured pupil, received medical treatment for their wounds following the attack. Liz Hopkin was airlifted to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff for stab wounds to her leg, chest, and neck. The trial continues as the prosecution presents evidence to support the charges brought against the accused. The community remains shocked by the violence that unfolded within the school premises, prompting a reflection on school safety and support for those affected.