A 17-year-old student from Malaysia, Thomas Wei Huang, has been sentenced to life with a minimum of 12 years for a brutal hammer attack on two fellow students and a housemaster at Blundell’s School in Tiverton, Devon. The violent incident, which took place on June 9, 2023, left two roommates, aged 15 and 16, with serious injuries, including skull fractures and punctured organs. Housemaster Henry Roffe-Silvester also sustained severe injuries, with six head wounds from the attack.
The Incident
The attack occurred in the early hours, as Huang targeted his sleeping roommates before assaulting Mr. Roffe-Silvester, who was alerted by the noise and intervened. Although the housemaster recovered, one of the students suffered permanent brain damage, while both continue to experience the long-term consequences of the assault.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Huang, who claimed to be sleepwalking, pleaded not guilty to attempted murder on grounds of insanity. However, the jury rejected this defense, given evidence of his fascination with violent themes and his collection of weapons. Sentencing him, Judge Mrs. Justice Cutts emphasized that Huang had clear intent and was aware of his actions, noting that he was struggling with significant personal and academic pressures.
Aftermath and Impact
Following the lifting of a publication ban, Huang’s name has now been released to the public. The attack has sent shockwaves through the school community, highlighting concerns around mental health, stress management, and safety in boarding school environments.
