A MAN has admitted knifing a schoolgirl eight times as she visited Leicester Square with her mum.
Ioan Pintaru, 33, is accused of attacking the 11-year-old tourist, who was reportedly on a trip from Australia to see Taylor Swift perform.
Central NewsIoan Pintaru allegedly knifed an 11-year-old girl[/caption]
The Romanian national appeared at the Old Bailey today where he pleaded guilty to wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm.
He also admitted possession of a bladed article – a steak knife – in a public place.
Pintaru, who used an interpreter in court, pleaded not guilty to a charge of attempted murder.
Prosecutor Heidi Stonecliffe KC said there would be a trial on the outstanding charge from October 27.
The horror unfolded in the bustling tourist hotspot at around 11.34am on August 12.
Pintaru allegedly put the girl in a headlock before stabbing her eight times.
Hero passers-by came to the girl’s aid, which prevented any further injury, it was said.
She sustained wounds to her face, shoulder, wrist and neck area and was taken to hospital.
Her mum was initially thought to have also been hurt but blood from her daughter’s injuries was mistaken for her own.
Police confirmed the suspect was not known to either of the victims and the stabbing is not currently being treated as terror-related.
Dad-of-one Pintaru was remanded into custody.
Central NewsPintaru will stand trial for attempted murder[/caption] Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
