Burnley man sentenced for attempting to murder his son

A 50-year-old man has today been sentenced to a hospital order for attempting to murder his 29-year-old son.

Around 6pm on 28 November 2021 following a 999 call, officers attended Cog Lane, Burnley where they were met by Andrew Heaton who told them that he had stabbed his son.

His son was found lying on the sofa, with a wound to his chest. Police and paramedics gave first aid at the scene and he was later transferred to hospital.

An officer recovered a large kitchen knife with a 12 inch blade from the bottom of the stairs.

Heaton’s son underwent surgery for a punctured lung at Blackpool Victoria hospital and was released just over a week later with antibiotics.

He admitted that he had stabbed his son in interview and explained that he wanted to end his son’s suffering.

He went on to plead guilty at court and the case was adjourned for psychiatric reports to be considered before sentencing.

Heaton was sentenced today at Burnley Crown Court to a hospital order with a restriction order.

Emanuele Bellanca, Senior Crown Prosecutor for CPS North West said: “ This was shocking incident that must have been a traumatic experience for Andrew Heaton’s son.

“He accepted what he had done at the earliest opportunity and pleaded guilty, which spared witnesses having to give evidence at court.

“We understand that Andrew Heaton suffers with a mental health condition and this offence took place during a relapse of his condition.

“Our thoughts are with those that have been affected by this incident.”