Knifeman jailed after stabbing man outside hospital then going on rampage in A&E department

A 22-year-old has been jailed after going on a knife-wielding rampage in a hospital A&E department.

Yusuf Aka stabbed a man outside Leicester Royal Infirmary and then went on a rampage through the A&E department, damaging equipment and causing panic among waiting patients.

Aka, from Grovebury Walk, Leicester, was jailed for five years at Leicester Crown Court after pleading guilty to causing grievous bodily harm (GBH), wounding with intent, affray and possession of an offensive weapon at a previous hearing.

Leicestershire Police said just after 2am on January 16, Aka approached two men who were leaving the A&E department of the hospital, lunging at one and stabbing him in the back.

CCTV shows the victim, 25, and his friend fleeing, with Aka giving chase, before turning back and going into the hospital brandishing the knife.

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Footage shows Aka enter the reception area, then begin to pick up computer monitors and hurl them across the room, sparking panic among waiting patients.

As people flee the room, one man in a wheelchair appears cornered by Aka while a nurse approaches the knifeman. The man in the wheelchair escapes as Aka throws a monitor at him, and the nurse is seen fleeing from the 22-year-old.

Investigating officer DC Chris Symmonds said: “This was a terrifying experience not only for the victim who was stabbed, but also for the many members of the public and staff who were present that morning.

“Aka carried on his rampage oblivious to the panic breaking out behind him.

“The actions of members of staff who quickly took control of the situation, and led people out of his way without a thought for their own safety, was commendable, and they should be proud of what they accomplished.”

Kerry Johnston, Emergency Department Head of Nursing at Leicester’s Hospitals said: “We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of the staff, patients and visitors who use our services.

“This was a frightening experience for both patients and staff in the department that night, the impact of which cannot be underestimated.

“My thanks goes to the Emergency Department staff, involved in the incident, who showed exceptional bravery in bringing this serious attack to a swift and safe conclusion with the help of Leicestershire police and other members of the public.”