Bristol man fighting for his life after alleged screwdriver stabbing
A 25-year-old young man struggled for his life after allegedly being stabbed in the head with a screwdriver at the construction site.
Jamie Chappell, described by his family as “the life and soul of every room he entered”, was working in Purton, near Swindon, when the incident occurred on Thursday.
His sister says the family’s lives have been turned upside down but they are determined to support him as he receives life-saving treatment at Southmead Hospital in Bristol.
James Denys, 36, of Ravensdale, East Wichel, appeared in court charged with assault occasioning grievous bodily harm.
Kelly Chappell, Jamie’s sister, said: “Jamie is one of the kindest, gentlest souls you will ever meet. Jamie is in a critical condition today. His injuries are not only life-changing but life-threatening.”
“Every hour is a war and our family continues to live with uncertainty, fear and heartbreak that no family should ever have to endure.
“Jamie is the heart of our family and the life and soul of every room he walks into. He is the person who makes people laugh, brings joy to others, and would do anything for anyone. His kindness, loyalty, and love for those around him are what define him.
“Nothing can prepare you for standing next to someone you love, not knowing what tomorrow will bring. Our lives were turned upside down in an instant.”
He added: ‘As a family we are devastated but also determined. We will be with Jamie through every operation, every failure, every small victory and every step of the long road ahead.’
The family thanked everyone who helped following Jamie’s injury, especially those working on site at Widham Gardens after the incident.
“In the face of an unimaginable situation, your courage, quick thinking and determination to help Jamie gave him the best possible chance. We truly believe your actions saved his life and our family can never thank you enough,” Ms Chappell wrote.
“We would also like to thank every emergency service worker who responded that morning. From first responders to police officers and paramedics, your professionalism, compassion and dedication in the most challenging of circumstances will never be forgotten.
“We owe a special thank you to the incredible team from Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance. The level of care, expertise and commitment you showed Jamie at the scene was nothing short of extraordinary. We firmly believe Jamie would not be here today without every single person who fought so hard for him that day, from those who were first with him to the emergency services and air ambulance crew.
“To the incredible trauma team, the neurosurgeons and every single member of staff who cared for him at Southmead Hospital… you gave us hope when we needed it most and we will never forget the extraordinary care you gave our son.”
Denys was remanded in custody when he appeared at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on Saturday. He will appear at Swindon Crown Court on August 21. A second man, 36, was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and was later released on bail.
