Man convicted of murder following triple stabbing

A 39-year-old man has been convicted of murdering a beloved father and injuring two others in an attack described by police as "planned and cowardly."

Kane Kotwica fatally stabbed 53-year-old Matthew Cainey outside a Gloucester home on May 28, an assault recorded by a doorbell camera. The incident occurred after a night of drinking and drug use. Kotwica denied the murder charges but was found guilty after a three-week trial at Bristol Crown Court. He is scheduled for sentencing on Wednesday.

Matthew Cainey's family remembered him as a "cheerful and mischievous man" and said they are devastated by his loss.

The attack followed a night of socializing at a Bedford Street residence, where Kotwica became involved in an argument and briefly left the property. He returned armed with a knife and stabbed Cainey once in the chest.

Kotwica also faced attempted murder charges for 41-year-old Jamie Bullock and 38-year-old Luke Lambert but was acquitted of these. He was, however, convicted of causing grievous bodily harm to both men. They had tried to restrain Kotwica during the attack, with one requiring emergency surgery for a chest wound and the other suffering a severe neck injury.

After the assault, Kotwica was recorded on CCTV discarding the knife down a drain. The weapon was recovered, and armed officers arrested him nearby.

Detective Inspector Adam Stacey, leading the investigation, described the attack as "a premeditated act that has deprived a family of their loved one and left two others seriously injured." He added, "My thoughts remain with Matthew's family, who have shown remarkable dignity, particularly in court."

The Cainey family expressed profound grief, noting, "Dad was always a joyful and playful presence, devoted to his family and friends. We are grateful to the Gloucestershire Constabulary for their dedication in achieving justice."

Author: Noah Whitman