🚨 Verdict In: Shocking Park Attack Case Concluded 🚨
A Carmarthen community has been rocked by the trial of James McKenna, 57, who attempted to murder his ex-partner in a broad daylight park attack. On January 29, McKenna targeted Joanne Sidaway while she was out walking her dog in Carmarthen Park.
Earlier that day, McKenna had tried to find her at Carmarthenshire Museum before returning to the park, knowing she often walked there. Witnesses recall hearing “very high-pitched screams” and seeing a neighbour’s dog near the scene of the assault.
Joanne Sidaway faced a terrifying ordeal when McKenna, armed with a 30cm kitchen knife, suddenly attacked her multiple times. She sustained serious injuries, including penetrating wounds to her chest and arm, and defensive injuries to her hands. Thanks to sheer luck, she survived and was rushed to hospital.
After his violent act, McKenna attempted to evade justice, hiding out in local woodlands and eventually reaching a hospital in Aberystwyth to seek frostbite treatment. It was there on February 2 that he was apprehended by the police.
Despite admitting to grievous bodily harm and possession of a knife, McKenna denied attempting to murder Sidaway. However, his intentions were clear, and after just two and a half hours of deliberation, the jury found him guilty of attempted murder.
Detective Chief Inspector Sian Davies praised the community’s support and the police efforts in tracking down McKenna. Speaking about the case, she said, “James McKenna’s actions demonstrated a shocking level of pre-planned violence.”
Stay tuned for McKenna’s sentencing on September 2. Our thoughts go out to Joanne Sidaway as she begins to move forward from this horrific event. 💔 #JusticeServed #CommunitySupport #StaySafe