A teenager brutally stabbed his uncle in the chest after they had enjoyed Christmas dinner together. Josh Gray, 19, attacked Leonard Sloan at the victim's home in Bonnyrigg, Midlothian.
Both had been dressed in Christmas themed suits as they joined other relatives for the festive celebrations on December 25 2021. But, matters later turned violent leaving Mr Sloan seriously hurt in hospital.
First offender Gray - who was 17 at the time - now faces being locked up after he pled guilty to assaulting the 47 year-old to his severe injury, permanent disfigurement and to the danger of his life.
Prosecutor Graeme Jessop told the High Court in Glasgow how the teenager had gone to his aunt and uncle's home for dinner. Mr Jessop said: "Both Gray and Mr Sloan were dressed in matching Christmas suits - trousers, jackets and ties with Santa patterns."
Other family later left, but Gray stayed at the house. Around 9pm, however, he then called his cousin's boyfriend and went on to threaten to assault Mr Sloan claiming he was "chatting s****".
Other relatives returned before Gray and Mr Sloan started arguing. The victim initially walked away and the teenager was then clocked clutching a kitchen knife.
Gray was told to put the blade down, but did not listen. Mr Jessop said as Mr Sloan approached his nephew, Gray moved towards him and struck out with the knife hitting him once in the chest.
There was a brief struggle between the pair before Gray fled the scene. Mr Sloan's daughter was among those who tried to stem the blood from his wound. Mercy crews were called and the victim stated Gray was responsible.
Mr Jessop said: "He initially told police he was 'fine'. However, he started to struggle for breath and slipped in and out of consciousness."
Mr Sloan was rushed to hospital needing emergency surgery and a chest drain. He was luckily able to leave around a week later, but has been left permanently scarred.
Mr Jessop added: "The stab wound was of a life threatening nature. If he had not had surgery, his life would have been at risk."
Gray was discovered lying in a garden after the attack. His lawyer Kenneth Cloggie told the court : "It is a terrible event with terrible consequences for both people involved."
Lady Stacey remarked she had read a victim impact statement and that Mr Sloan stated he still "tries to keep well out" of being anywhere near his nephew.
The judge continued bail for Gray, now of Selkirk, pending sentencing next month. She warned the teenager: "There is no guarantee that I will not take the view that the only sentence is detention.
"I do not know, but I do not want to send you away with false hope. You have been given a chance, but do not let me lead you up the garden path."
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