Key Points:
- A man with a knife was arrested in Lewisham after attempting to stab another man.
- The suspect, Fitzgerald Carty, 66, attacked a victim at a petrol station on Lee High Road on January 25.
- PC Morgan Younger, 23, acted swiftly, singlehandedly disarmed and restrained the attacker.
- The suspect was charged with possession of a knife and attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.
- Carty pleaded guilty at Woolwich Crown Court and was sentenced to 30 months in prison.
- The victim, in his 40s, was unharmed.
- Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry praised PC Younger for his bravery.
Lewisham Knife Attack: How Did a Police Officer Singlehandedly Stop the Attacker?
What Happened at the Lewisham Petrol Station?
A dramatic incident unfolded on January 25 at a petrol station on Lee High Road, Lewisham, where a man attempted to stab another individual. The suspect, Fitzgerald Carty, 66, was seen grabbing the victim by the throat and trying to stab him with a large knife. The terrifying moment was captured on video.
How Did PC Morgan Younger Stop the Armed Suspect?
PC Morgan Younger, 23, attached to the South East Command Unit, was on patrol and had stopped at the petrol station to buy a drink when he witnessed the attack. Without hesitation, he intervened, grabbing Carty and wrestling him to the ground despite the suspect still wielding the knife. PC Younger managed to disarm and restrain him while calling for backup.
“I acted instinctively and without question, I just needed to stop a clearly dangerous man with a knife,” PC Younger said. “My training kicked in and I did everything I could. I live and breathe policing – I have a strong desire to help those in need, and keep people safe.”
What Charges Did Fitzgerald Carty Face?
Carty was arrested on January 26 and charged with possession of a knife and attempted grievous bodily harm with intent. During court proceedings, it was revealed that he knew the victim and the attack stemmed from a previous dispute.
What Was the Court Verdict and Sentence?
Carty pleaded guilty at Woolwich Crown Court on February 24. He received a 30-month prison sentence for attempted grievous bodily harm with intent and an additional six-month sentence for possession of a knife, to be served concurrently.
What Was the Reaction from Police Officials?
Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, responsible for policing Lewisham, commended PC Younger’s actions, stating:
“A dangerous man is now behind bars thanks to the outstanding work of PC Younger. He saw a very violent crime in progress and didn’t hesitate to race in and wrestle the knifeman to the ground. I have no doubt without his intervention, the victim would have been seriously injured.”
PC Younger has been nominated for a commendation in recognition of his courage and quick response.
What Is the Broader Impact of This Incident?
The arrest highlights ongoing concerns about knife crime in London, particularly in Lewisham. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks police officers face daily and the importance of swift intervention in violent situations. Authorities continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activities involving weapons.
