Andrew Paul Mullings, of Dingwall Road, was waiting for a tram at Sandilands before attacking his victim on July 18 last year.
Mullings blocked the man’s path as he attempted to board and when asked why, Mullings replied that he would kill him.
Once on the tram, he produced a kitchen knife from his bag and stabbed the victim in the abdomen.
As the victim attempted to move down the carriage to get away, Mullings pursued him, continuing to stab at him.
Panicked passengers attempted to flee while Mullings stabbed the victim in his face and legs.
Once the victim had managed to escape, Mullings took a seat and engaged in conversation with two passengers before fleeing the service when it came to an emergency stop in a tunnel between Sandilands and Lloyd Park.
Mullings was arrested by police shortly afterwards as he walked down the tramlines.
On arrest, Mullings was found with a kitchen knife and meat cleaver in his bag.
On forensic testing, the knife bore the blood of the victim.
The victim sustained more than eight stab wounds to his face, abdomen arms and legs.
He pleaded guilty to wounding, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of a bladed article and was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order at Inner London Crown Court today (October 10).
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Paul Attwell said: “This was a terrifying incident for both the victim and other passengers who watched on in horror as Mullings carried out a sustained knife attack on an innocent stranger.
“Given his extensive injuries the victim was lucky to escape with his life.
“While incidents like this on the railway are extremely rare we encourage all passengers who see or experience crime to report it to us so we can take action.
“They can discreetly report crimes or concerns via text 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40. In an emergency, always call 999.”
