A uniformed army officer who survived a brutal stabbing attack in Kent has told a court that his assailant attempted to behead him, drawing a chilling comparison to the murder of soldier Lee Rigby in 2013.
Details of the Vicious Assault
Lieutenant Colonel Mark Teeton, a serving officer with 26 years of experience including tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, was targeted near Brompton Barracks in Chatham, Kent, in July 2024. During a sentencing hearing at Maidstone Crown Court, he described the attack as leaving him with severe injuries, including a large neck wound and multiple stab wounds to his chest, abdomen, groin, and limbs.
Victim's Harrowing Account
In emotional testimony, Lt Col Teeton expressed gratitude for being alive, stating he still relives the incident but is thankful he was unconscious for much of it. He praised the heroes who came to his aid, including his wife Eileen, for their courage during the ordeal.
His wife, Mrs Teeton, provided a victim impact statement, recounting how she rushed to help a soldier on the ground only to realise it was her husband. She described watching in horror as the attack continued, and later, in hospital, her husband revealed the assailant's intent, saying, "Cut my head off. Like Lee Rigby."
Attacker's Background and Motive
Anthony Esan, 25, pleaded guilty in January to attempted murder and possessing two bladed weapons. Prosecutor Alison Morgan KC characterised the attack as vicious and deliberate, noting that Lt Col Teeton was targeted due to his appearance as a soldier.
Evidence presented in court showed that Esan had conducted online searches related to knives, a terrorist attack in West Africa, and the "Woolwich soldier murdered" – a clear reference to the Lee Rigby case. Esan had previously made unsuccessful attempts to join the British Army, being rejected in 2021 for a psychotic disorder and eczema, after reports to mental health services about hearing voices.
Method of the Attack
The court heard that Esan approached Lt Col Teeton under the pretence of needing assistance, asking to borrow his phone because his moped had broken down. When the officer was distracted, Esan used two knives to inflict multiple stab wounds before fleeing the scene on a moped.
The sentencing hearing is expected to continue over three days, with the judge considering the severity of the crimes and the impact on the victim and his family.
