Soldier stabbed in attack outside barracks is dad of two who raised £1,000s for veterans’ charity
THE soldier stabbed in an attack outside his barracks is a dad-of-two who has raised thousands of pounds for a veterans’ charity.
Lt Col Mark Teeton was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition following the rampage near Brompton Barracks in Kent.
The officer joined the Army 24 years ago and in 2018 was awarded a long service and good conduct medal.
He ran 44 miles on the 80th anniversary of D-Day to raise money for the Combat Stress charity.
Anthony Esan, 24, has been remanded in custody after appearing at Medway Magistrates’ Court charged with attempted murder.
The 24-year-old was arrested near his home address in Mooring Road, Rochester.
He has now been charged with attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
Esan was seen dressed in grey arriving at Medway Magistrates’ Court this morning.
A number of cops surrounded him as he stepped out of the back of a police van.
The horror unfolded on Sally Port Gardens as the alleged knifeman used two blades to repeatedly stab Lt Col Teeton,.
“Blood-curdling” screams pierced the air as Lt Col Teeton’s wife rushed out of their home to help her husband, who is understood to have been in full uniform.
The officer managed to get back on his feet and stagger towards his house before the alleged attacker launched into a second savage assault.
Officers later arrested a 24-year-old man in Rochester, Kent, after he fled the scene on a motorbike.
Acting Chief Superintendent Richard Woolley said: “‘This was an upsetting incident for all concerned.
“Our best wishes go to the victim, his family and those who witnessed the incident.
“Residents will experience an increased police presence in the Gillingham area.
“I would like to reassure everyone that officers responded quickly to take a man into custody.”
Woolley added: “We do not currently believe anyone else was involved.
“We are also investigating any possible links between the location and the suspect.
“There is no further information at this time to suggest there are any wider threats to the local community including members of the armed forces.”