A Home Office forensic pathologist has detailed the extent of injuries suffered by Walter Patterson, who was allegedly attacked by John Henry Sayers and his son in Byker. Dr Jennifer Bolton told Newcastle Crown Court that Patterson sustained a combination of sharp and blunt force injuries, requiring surgery.
Injuries Described
Dr Bolton said Patterson had two sharp force wounds or cuts to the left front of his scalp, an open fracture to both bones in his left arm (with bones visible through the skin), fractures to his ninth and tenth ribs, and a laceration to his spleen. A CT scan also revealed fractures to four lumbar vertebrae in his back.
Evidence of Weapon Use
Dr Bolton explained that sharp force injuries could be caused by a knife, axe, or machete, while blunt force results from punches, kicks, stamps, or weapons. She concluded: "There have been at least four uses of a machete or something similar and at least three forceful blunt force impacts to account for the injuries seen on Mr Patterson."
CCTV Footage Discrepancies
Under cross-examination, Dr Bolton confirmed no injuries were found where a machete was seen on CCTV to strike Patterson on the top of his leg. Jurors viewed compilation footage of the alleged attack. Michael Holland KC, for Sayers snr, noted the initial interaction shows Sayers snr's arm raise but not if or where the machete lands, although Patterson then falls.
Prosecutor Matthew Bean asked Det Sgt Darren Davies to describe what he sees when Sayers comes around the corner with the machete. The officer said: "He raises it and swings it towards Walter Patterson." Bean acknowledged there is no footage of what happened when they moved out of camera view.
Defendants and Charges
John Henry Sayers, 62, and his son John Henry Sayers jnr, 29, both of Fossway, Byker, Newcastle, deny causing grievous bodily harm with intent. The trial continues.
