Rishton, Lancashire – A brutal attack involving machetes, an axe, and a golf club in 2021 was prevented from becoming fatal thanks to the heroic actions of a young girl who risked her life to save the victim. The incident, orchestrated by teenager Jay Slater and seven others, caught the attention of Judge Philip Parry who commended the bravery displayed by the 15-year-old girl. Despite their horrendous actions, including violent disorder, the defendants were cleared of the more serious charge of wounding with intent to commit GBH during the trial.
Three years later, Jay Slater, one of the assailants, has gone missing in Tenerife, sparking a significant police search operation. Witnesses described Jay as being on the outskirts of the attack at the time of the incident. The violent episode took place at an old paper mill in Rishton, Lancashire, which had become a gathering place for local youths following a period of stringent lockdown measures due to the pandemic.
The assailants, armed with weapons like machetes and axes, chased down their victim, Tom Hilton, on the night of the attack. The group, consisting of individuals aged between 14 and 18, struck Tom, leaving him with severe injuries that required medical attention. Despite facing adversity, the brave actions of the young girl who intervened and shielded Tom from further harm were crucial in saving his life.
The attackers, displaying a callous disregard for human life, walked away from the scene believing they had killed Tom. The severity of the injuries sustained by Tom, including visible skull wounds and stamp marks on his legs, emphasized the viciousness of the attack. Throughout the trial, the defendants showed disrespect for the court, with the judge expressing disappointment in their behavior.
As the sentencing was delivered, Judge Philip Parry highlighted the serious nature of the offenses committed by the group, emphasizing the need for them to reflect on their actions. The sentences handed down ranged from community orders with rehabilitation activities to youth referral orders with supervision and curfews. The judge urged the young offenders to take this opportunity to turn their lives around and embrace lawful behavior moving forward.