A knife has stabbed a waiter in a frenzied attack in Solihull restaurant

A twisted knifeman is facing a lengthy prison sentence for attacking a waiter and leaving him with life-changing injuries. Oliver Parnell has been convicted of attempted murder after the worker was stabbed just two days before Christmas.

Parnell launched the violent attack as the victim opened the door for him to leave Lloyds Indian Restaurant in Knowle, Solihull. Parnell pulled a carving knife from his pocket and stabbed him five times, West Midlands Police said.

He ran from the restaurant and attempted to attack other employees who detained him on December 23, 2023. The 48-year-old victim is believed to have suffered life-changing injuries to his arms and stomach, from which continues to recover, West Midlands Police said.

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Police said that when interviewed, Parnell, 27, claimed he believed an attack was about to take place, but they later found evidence the stabbing was premeditated. He documented what he was going to do in a diary, DC Iqra Raheel said.

On Monday (July 8), Parnell was found guilty of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article at Birmingham Crown Court. He is to be sentenced on September 11.

DC Iqra Raheel said: “Parnell planned the attack before he set foot in the restaurant. Evidence recovered from his devices and a diary showed what he planned to do.

“He also took his own knife, which shows his actions were premeditated. His intention was always to cause serious harm or worse.”

DC Raheel added: “We do not tolerate serious violence in Solihull and will do everything we can to bring those who commit violence in our borough to justice.”

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