A Bristol court has heard shocking testimony in the murder trial of a university student accused of lying in wait for his housemate before stabbing him 30 times. The case, which has gripped the nation, unfolded at Bristol Crown Court, where prosecutors painted a chilling picture of premeditated violence.
The Ambush in Filton
Zack Coughlan, 23, allegedly dressed all in black and wore a mask and gloves to ambush Jamie Collins, 21, in the garden of their shared home near the University of West England in Bristol. Both were students of robotics. The attack occurred shortly before 6pm on 8 April, as Collins returned from campus on his bike.
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According to prosecutor Adam Vaitilingam KC, Coughlan then cycled away on Collins's bike, dumped it at a nearby retail park, bought a change of clothes, and threw his bloodstained clothing into a pond. He returned home around 9pm, put a pizza in the oven, and played online games with friends, the court was told.
A Chilling Aftermath
Hours later, at about 2am, Coughlan called 999, claiming he had just found his friend's body in the garden. He told the operator that Collins had been stabbed and was instructed to perform CPR until paramedics arrived. He claimed to have noticed the back gate open and discovered the body.
The attack was captured on CCTV installed at the house, which Coughlan showed to officers who initially treated him as a witness. He had injuries to his hands, which he claimed were from giving CPR.
Key Evidence and Timeline
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| ~5:50pm | Jamie Collins returns home on bike |
| ~6:00pm | Attack occurs in garden |
| ~6:30pm | Coughlan dumps bike, changes clothes |
| ~9:00pm | Coughlan returns home, eats pizza, plays games |
| ~2:00am | Coughlan calls 999 |
Legal Implications and Trial Updates
The trial continues as the prosecution builds its case against Coughlan. The defense has yet to present its full argument. The court heard that Coughlan had injuries to his hands, which he claimed were from performing CPR, but prosecutors allege they were from the stabbing.
This case highlights the importance of CCTV evidence and forensic analysis in modern murder trials. The shocking nature of the crime has sparked conversations about student safety and mental health support on university campuses.
Key Takeaways
- Coughlan allegedly planned the attack, wearing a mask and gloves.
- He attempted to create an alibi by playing online games after the murder.
- CCTV footage captured the attack, providing crucial evidence.
- The trial is ongoing at Bristol Crown Court.
FAQ
What happened in the Bristol student stabbing case?
Zack Coughlan is accused of lying in wait and stabbing his housemate Jamie Collins 30 times in the garden of their shared home in Filton, Bristol.
When did the attack take place?
The attack occurred shortly before 6pm on 8 April, as Collins returned from campus on his bike.
What evidence does the prosecution have?
The prosecution has CCTV footage of the attack, as well as evidence of Coughlan's attempts to dispose of evidence and create an alibi.
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