Corin Harper-Davis, 37, of Dermody Road, admitted the manslaughter of his uncle, Jonathan Harper, on the grounds of diminished responsibility.
The fatal attack took place in the village of Brampford Speke, near Exeter, on July 31 last year.
A court heard that Harper-Davis’ mental health had been in decline for a period of months then significantly dipped in the days before the incident.
Information from witnesses and medical experts revealed he had been experiencing psychotic illness when he attacked his uncle, who was trying to help and support him.
They had both been shopping when the defendant became aggressively and attacked his uncle without warning, stabbing him four times.
Corin Harper-Davis (Image: Devon and Cornwall Police) At Exeter Crown Court on Tuesday, April 22, Her Honour Judge Anna Richardson sentenced Harper-Davis to a hospital order, under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act, with a Section 41 restriction.
This means he will be detained in a secure hospital and can only be discharged with the consent of the Secretary of State for Justice.
Detective Inspector Guy Biggar said: “This is a truly tragic case, and I would like to pass on my thanks and condolences to Jonathan’s partner and son, both of whom have shown real bravery and compassion at an incredibly difficult time.
“I would also like to thank those other members of the Harper family who supported our investigation from the outset and the members of the community in Brampford Speke who rushed to Jonathan’s aid and engaged with Corin until police units arrived.”
