Knife Attack Shocker in Kendal Boots
James Smith, 29, from Collinfield, Kendal, faced Carlisle Crown Court today (4 May) after admitting a brutal knife attack. He pleaded guilty to wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and carrying a flick knife in public following a violent incident at a Kendal Boots store on 18 January 2023.
Old Friends Turned Foes
The drama unfolded shortly after 3pm when Smith bumped into a former college mate at the pharmacy counter in Boots on Stricklandgate, Kendal. The pair had a shaky history – Smith had stayed with the man last October, paying £50 a week. But trouble brewed when Smith refused to pay £300 owed for six weeks and moved out, cutting ties over the debt.
When they saw each other again, the former friend demanded the money. Smith not only denied the debt but also taunted the man about someone close to him. Tempers flared.
Brawl Escalates to Knife Attack
The man punched Smith in the face, sparking a fight inside the shop. Smith tried to grab him in a headlock but failed. As the victim tried to walk away, Smith pulled out a flick knife, opened it, and lunged.
- Smith slashed six times at the man’s hip, chest, and face.
- Three of the knife strikes hit their mark – hip, shoulder area, and cheek.
- Others narrowly missed.
The chilling attack was caught on Boots CCTV. Smith calmly watched his victim bleed on the floor before slipping away through the rear exit.
Swift Police Action and Victim’s Lucky Escape
Police and paramedics rushed to the scene. When Smith returned, he was spotted and arrested. The victim, flown by air ambulance with serious wounds, thankfully survived. Despite multiple stitches, none of the stab wounds were life-threatening.
Smith refused to answer questions during police interviews but owned up in court. Police also found the flick knife on him at arrest.
“Any assault involving a knife has the potential to end in tragedy and loss of life,” warned Acting Detective Inspector Lee Brumpton. “This violent, senseless attack could easily have ended in murder. Cumbria is one of the safest places to live, and there is no excuse for carrying a weapon.”
He praised all who acted quickly — from Boots staff and customers to emergency services — helping save the victim and apprehend Smith within minutes.
