Perth, Australia – A man in Perth, Australia, pleaded guilty to attempted murder following a violent assault that led to another man’s leg being severed on a busy highway. Matthew William Lawson, 25, appeared in court after being charged for the incident that caused a major disruption in City Beach. The altercation stemmed from an argument between Lawson and a 29-year-old man at a construction site, where Lawson allegedly struck the victim with a hammer after running him down with his vehicle.
The severe attack resulted in the 29-year-old man’s leg being severed, leaving a horrific scene with a large pool of blood in the roadway. Quick actions from a passing doctor, who applied a tourniquet to the injured man’s leg, likely saved his life. Despite being in critical condition, the victim was rushed to Royal Perth Hospital for further treatment.
During his court appearance, Lawson sported a distinctive appearance with a blonde mullet and beard, and he declined legal representation despite facing a serious charge. When asked by Magistrate Janelle Scutt if he wanted to seek legal advice or undergo a psychological evaluation, Lawson gave brief responses indicating he didn’t need these services. He admitted guilt to the attempted murder charge, prompting the case to be transferred to a Supreme Court judge due to the nature of the offense.
Authorities commended the efforts of bystanders, including an off-duty doctor, for rendering aid to the victim at the scene. The Premier of Western Australia, Roger Cook, condemned the attack as “disgusting” and praised law enforcement for apprehending the suspect. Cook described the incident as a “heinous and ugly, violent attack,” emphasizing the severity of the crime and the importance of holding the perpetrator accountable.
Aerial images of the scene revealed the aftermath of the violent assault, with bloodstains and debris visible on the highway. The ongoing investigation indicated that the individuals involved knew each other and had been present at a nearby construction site prior to the confrontation. Lawson’s decision to forego bail and legal representation further complicates the case, as he is set to appear in court again in August. The community remains in shock over the brutal nature of the attack and its repercussions on both the victim and the suspect.