A shocking incident unfolded in Carmarthen Park as James McKenna stands accused of attempting to murder his ex-partner, Joanne Sidaway, while she was walking her dog. The dramatic trial is currently underway at Swansea Crown Court, where McKenna has admitted to wounding with intent and carrying a knife in public but denies the murder charge.
On the morning of January 29, the prosecution alleges that McKenna packed a kitchen knife in his rucksack and headed to the park where Miss Sidaway frequently walks her dog. The two, captured on CCTV, were seen walking separately but did not interact, with McKenna seemingly cautious due to other park visitors.
The prosecution claims McKenna later took a taxi and returned to the park in the afternoon. This time, Miss Sidaway’s routine dog walk took a horrific turn. Witnesses recalled hearing high-pitched screams and saw a man fleeing the scene as Miss Sidaway was found with multiple stab wounds. Police later recovered a blood-stained knife and a rucksack near the scene.
McKenna was arrested days later at a hospital where he sought treatment for frostbite. In his statement, he admitted to inflicting injuries but denied any intent to kill. The prosecution, however, argues he intended murder, pointing to the severity of the attack and his preparation with a knife.
The courtroom has been shown key pieces of evidence, including CCTV footage of McKenna’s movements in the park and testimony from a police detective. Today marks the second day of the gripping trial, with more evidence anticipated. Stay tuned for further updates as the jury grapples with the central question of McKenna’s true intent on that fateful day.