Spit-Row Knifeman's Murder Bid

A car passenger, who plunged a knife into another man's heart over a remark made about spitting out of the vehicle's window, will be sentenced for attempted murder next month.

Joseph Dolan, 21, (pic.bottom) of Summerwood Road, Isleworth stabbed Lee Collins, 23, (pic.top) after the roadside incident in West London.

He was convicted at Isleworth Crown Court of attempting to murder Mr. Collins in Elmwood Avenue, Feltham on March 2.

During the trial the jury heard that at around 4.50pm Mr. Collins was standing with a group of friends next to his new car in a service road off Elmwood Avenue, when another car drove past.

Dolan, who was the front seat passenger, spat on the ground as he passed the victim's group and Mr. Collins made a comment towards Dolan.

Dolan's car stopped a short distance away and he got out and confronted Mr. Collins.

Standing face to face with the victim, Dolan asked “What did you say?” and without warning removed his right hand from his jacket and stabbed Mr. Collins in the left side of his chest, penetrating his heart.

He then turned and walked back to his car which drove off.

Mr. Collins was taken to St. Mary's Hospital where he underwent extensive treatment to the heart and brain.

He remained in a critical condition and was released from hospital on March 27, however he will have ongoing left sided body weakness for life and is highly likely to require further surgery.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Manning said: : “Lee Collins' life was saved thanks only to the expert medical care provided by the emergency services.

“He received life changing injuries which will affect him for the remainder of his life.



“Dolan carried out a vicious and callous attack on Lee and his violent action has resulted in a lifetime of suffering for both Lee and his family.

“This conviction sends out a strong message to those who act in this mindless fashion, that the MPS will pursue you and put you before the courts, where justice will be served.”