A TEENAGER has admitted randomly stabbing a woman while she walked her dog in an Abingdon park.

Oliver Welsby, of no fixed abode, launched the attack on victim Julie Faulkner in woodland at Boxhill Park on July 19 – just days before his 18th birthday.

Police say he grabbed the 51-year-old across the mouth and stabbed her in the stomach during the terrifying assault, before fleeing the scene.  

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The Abingdon woman was rushed to hospital and was treated by surgeons before being released two days later.

Welsby, now aged 18, pleaded guilty to one count of wounding with intent at Oxford Crown Court on Monday.

He is due to be sentenced at the same court in January.

He is a former pupil of Chilworth House Upper School near Oxford and had previously lived in Abingdon before moving to Reading.

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CCTV of Welsby near the scene

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Jen Gibbons of Force CID based at Abingdon police station, said: “On the morning of July 31st this year, the victim, a 51-year-old woman was walking her dog in Boxhill Park.

“She was then approached by Oliver Welsby, who without warning, grabbed her across the mouth and stabbed her in the stomach, before fleeing the scene.

“The victim sustained serious injuries to her lower abdomen, but thankfully survived the attack. However, understandably the impact of this incident on her, and the wider community, has been huge.

“I am pleased that Welsby has pleaded guilty to the offence and will be sentenced by the courts in due course.

“I would like to thank all those who have helped this investigation, including members of the public who came forward and for the continued support of our community.”