Random Attack in London’s West End

The chilling incident took place around 11:30 BST on 12 August last year. Ioan Pintaru, a Romanian national, targeted the young girl as she left a Lego store with her 34-year-old mother. Without warning, he grabbed her in a headlock and stabbed her eight times.

Guilty Plea Shakes Court

Pintaru, who pleaded not guilty to attempted murder, instead admitted to wounding the child with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and possession of a knife. The 33-year-old appeared at the Old Bailey via video link, with an interpreter assisting him during the hearing before Judge Richard Marks KC.

Heroic Security Guard Saves the Day

• A nearby security guard bravely stepped in, disarming Pintaru and pinning him to the ground until police arrived.
• The victim was rushed to hospital suffering injuries to her face, shoulder, wrist, and neck.

Trial for Attempted Murder Set

Prosecutor Heidi Stonecliffe KC confirmed a trial will begin on 27 October to address the outstanding attempted murder charge. Pintaru, currently of no fixed address, now faces the full might of the law for this shocking attack in one of London’s busiest tourist spots.