Knifeman Locked-Up For Double Murder Attempt

A crazed knifeman, who tried to stab two women to death during seperate horrifying attacks, has been locked up in a top-security mental hospital.

Archibald Reverent Foster, 48, of Tredown Road, Sydenham can only be released from his indefinite hospital order by the Home Secretary.

He was convicted at Woolwich Crown Court of attempting to murder a 26 year-old woman in Bromley Road, Catford on August 22, last year and a 31 year-old in Plumstead Common on September 5.

Police were called at 9:05am on August 22 to reports of a woman stabbed in the street.


She was taken by ambulance to hospital suffering from injuries to her hand, arm and leg.

A knife was recovered from the scene by officers.



The victim was only saved from more serious injuries by her handbag, which she used to shield her stomach as Foster continually stabbed at her, and by the intervention of a 69-year-old passer-by - John Wayre - who grabbed Foster and pulled him off the victim.


Police were called two weeks later at approximately 9:50am on September 5 after the second stabbing.



Foster had approached the victim from behind as she walked across Plumstead Common and slashed her across the throat before stabbing her.

He then continued to attack her as she lay on the ground, before walking off.



She was taken by air ambulance to hospital suffering from five serious stab wounds to her legs.

She also suffered further injuries to her hands, fingers and neck. 



Foster was arrested shortly afterwards on a bus in Plumstead and the knife was found in his bag.



Judge Michael Topolski commended Mr. Wayre's bravery and said it was “breathtaking, helping an innocent person without regard to himself.”

He issued Mr. Wayre with a Judge's commendation for bravery and £750 from the public purse. 



Investigating officer Acting Detective Sergeant Stephanie Chance, said: “I would like to thank the two victims for their courage and the support they’ve given to the investigation throughout.

“This was a horrific, unprovoked attack on them both and I wish them the very best for the future. 



"I would also like to commend the bravery of each of the witnesses who went to the aid of both victims.

“Without their courage and intervention these attacks could well have been fatal. 



"I am very pleased with the sentence, a very dangerous man is now off the streets and is receiving the care and treatment that he requires.”