**Teenager Jailed After Vicious Machete Attack on Stranger in Barry**
A teenager from Bryanna has been sentenced to six years in a young offenders’ institution following a brutal street attack, in which he slashed a man with a machete after the victim mistakenly approached him. The shocking incident, captured on CCTV, unfolded near Ramsey Road in Barry in December last year and left the victim with severe injuries, including a significant facial wound and nerve damage.
On the evening of 11 December 2024, Daniel Harris, aged 18, found himself the subject of an unintentional encounter when a man in his thirties confused him for another person. According to evidence presented at Cardiff Crown Court, what began as a simple misunderstanding quickly escalated into a violent assault. Harris, who had concealed a machete in his trousers, drew the weapon and launched a sudden attack.
CCTV recordings of the aftermath revealed the chilling reality of the confrontation. The footage shows Harris brandishing the machete, threatening the victim before cutting him near the neck. The man attempted to flee but stumbled and fell, only for Harris to pursue and continue the attack as the victim was on the ground. The relentless nature of the assault was described by witnesses and police as disturbingly aggressive.
Following the assault, Harris quickly absconded from the scene, leaving his victim in urgent need of medical attention. The injuries suffered were extensive: the victim required more than 20 stitches for a deep facial laceration, incurred a severe cut to his right shoulder, and sustained a ruptured Achilles tendon, accompanied by both tendon and nerve trauma. Such injuries, police noted, could easily have resulted in an even more tragic outcome.
After a thorough investigation, including analysis of the CCTV evidence, Harris was apprehended and subsequently found guilty of grievous bodily harm with intent. At his sentencing on Thursday, 17 July at Cardiff Crown Court, Harris was handed a six-year custodial sentence. Members of the local community and crime prevention advocates have spoken out about the case, highlighting concerns regarding knife and machete crime in the region.
Detective Inspector Phillip Marchant of South Wales Police responded to the sentencing by emphasising the force’s commitment to tackling violent crime involving weapons. “Dealing with offences where dangerous weapons like machetes are involved remains a key priority for us,” he said. “There is absolutely no place for individuals who carry knives or bladed weapons in our community, and the consequences of such actions can be devastating.”
The detective also made clear the seriousness with which the force regards all violent crimes. “While the victim’s injuries were serious and traumatic, it is important to recognise that the consequences might easily have been far worse. We hope this sentence will serve as a stark reminder, both to Harris and to others, of the grave risks associated with carrying weapons,” DI Marchant added.
Several residents in Barry expressed shock at the attack, calling it a stark illustration of the dangers posed by knife crime among young people. Local community leaders are urging parents and schools to do more in educating teenagers about the consequences such actions can carry – for both victims and perpetrators.
At the time of sentencing, it was revealed that Harris was known by the nickname “Rambo” amongst his peers. South Wales Police reiterated their message to young people that carrying any form of weapon, regardless of nickname or reputation, will not be tolerated.
As the victim continues his recovery from injuries that are likely to have long-term physical and psychological effects, the case has reignited debate around how best to address rising incidents of youth violence in urban areas. Officials insist that partnership between law enforcement and community outreach is more essential than ever.
This case stands as a grim reminder of how swiftly everyday misunderstandings can turn into violent tragedy when weapons are involved. Authorities are calling on anyone with information about individuals carrying knives to come forward confidentially and play their part in keeping Welsh communities safe.