Man jailed for stabbing a mother and son in an unprovoked attack

Shortly before 8.30am on 13 November 2022, officers were called to a report of a stabbing at a house in Penydarren, Merthyr.

An 80-year-old woman suffered two stab wounds to the wrist which required stitching and a broken wrist. A 43-year-old man suffered a stab wound to his chest, which punctured a lung and was at one point in a life-threatening condition.

Patrick (Alan) Shaw fled the scene in the victim’s car but was located and arrested later that day.

Following a thorough investigation by detectives, Shaw pled guilty to two counts of S18 Assault (wounding with intent), and was sentenced yesterday (Wednesday 22 February) to six and a half years' imprisonment at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court. The 53-year-old was also convicted of possession of an offensive weapon and taking a vehicle without consent.

Detective Constable Matt Pryce, who led the case, said:

“Patrick Shaw will spend a considerable amount of time behind bars which is what he deserves for this brutal attack on a family in their own home.

“Had it not been for the vigilance of the neighbours and valiant efforts of police and ambulance staff who arrived at the scene, the victim’s outcome may have been different.

“I hope the sentence brings the family some closure and makes it clear that the use of any weapon will not be tolerated in our communities.”