Man jailed for knife attack at Bognor Regis station
The unprovoked assault left victim needing emergency surgery
Last updated 27th Feb 2026
A man has been sentenced to four years behind bars after attacking another man in an unprovoked knife assault at Bognor Regis railway station.
Jason McDonagh, 22, who has no fixed address, appeared at Portsmouth Crown Court on 2nd January and pleaded guilty to Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) and two counts of possession of a knife.
The victim had been at a friend's flat in the early hours of 25th November last year when McDonagh behaved aggressively and later fell asleep.
Upon leaving the flat to get food and returning, they encountered further aggression from McDonagh.
At around 8.20 am, as the victim and his friend left the flat again, McDonagh emerged from an alleyway, throwing a glass bottle and a kitchen knife at the victim.
He picked up the knife and chased the victim to the station, where CCTV captured him lunging at the victim and slashing his right arm.
Witnesses were shocked as McDonagh continued the attack, knocking the victim down before he managed to flee.
Sussex Police officers arrived swiftly after being alerted by the public and detained McDonagh soon after.
The victim required emergency surgery for a significant arm injury.
BTP Detective Constable Christopher May expressed satisfaction with the verdict, highlighting the harm caused to the victim and distress to the community.
McDonagh had no clear motive for the attack and was only loosely known to the victim.
The assault happened in front of commuters and just seconds after schoolchildren had been escorted through the station.
Detectives and forensic teams ensured McDonagh was charged and detained within 24 hours, contributing to swift justice for the victim.
DC May thanked those involved in the investigation, noting their dedication and support.