Pensioner, 76, on machete attack charge
Jan 23 2009 by Chris Robinson, The Journal
A 76-YEAR-OLD man was charged last night with a machete attack on another pensioner.
Leonard Fionda, of Calf Close Walk, Jarrow, South Tyneside, was arrested after the alleged knifing of allotment holder Joe Holland, 66.
Police said he would face charges of wounding, criminal damage and possessing an offensive weapon when he appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court today. (fri)
It is understood Mr Holland was approached at his allotment by a man who asked for some wood. When Mr Holland agreed and turned away, he was allegedly struck several times about the head, and required hospital treatment for facial injuries, which were not thought to be life- threatening.
Mr Fionda was questioned by police after the incident in Jarrow.
Officers were called to what is known locally as Pigsty Avenue allotments, off Springwell Road.
Police taped off the area as pupils from nearby Jarrow School watched.
Paramedics took the injured man to South Tyneside District Hospital at about 3.20pm on Wednesday.
People living near the allotments expressed shock yesterday.
Stephen Smith, 55, of Ecgfrid Terrace, said: "My daughter saw most of it when she was coming home from school. People thought it was kids to start off with. Someone said that someone was stabbed.
"It was an isolated incident. It’s generally all right around here."
An elderly woman, who did not want to be identified, said: "I’m really shocked, it’s usually quiet and a nice area.
"People keep themselves to themselves, but they are always friendly. I bet his family were beside themselves with worry."
A Northumbria Police spokeswoman said: "Police were called to Springwell Road just before 3.20pm following reports of a man armed with a machete causing damage to a vehicle in the street.
"The driver of the vehicle, a 66-year-old man suffered a facial injury during the incident.
"He was taken to South Tyneside District Hospital for treatment. However, his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening."
Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is being asked to contact South Tyneside Area Command on 0345 604-3043 ext 65046.
