By Aaron Bunch
A man accused of running down another man with a ute, reportedly severing his leg before attacking him with a hammer, has pleaded guilty to attempted murder.
Matthew William Lawson, 25, briefly appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday charged with the attempted murder of Trae Black, 29.
Victim Trae Black.Credit: 9 News Perth
Bearded and wearing a white singlet revealing heavily tattooed arms, Lawson refused to seek legal advice before admitting to the crime during his first court appearance.
Police said Lawson was involved in a verbal stoush with Black on Monday at a construction site in the affluent suburb of City Beach.
Black ran from the site and Lawson chased him in a silver Mazda BT-50 utility onto busy West Coast Highway.
It is understood Lawson struck Black with the vehicle, severing his leg, before assaulting him with a hammer.
Black was taken to Royal Perth Hospital in a serious condition.
Lawson refused Magistrate Janelle Scutt’s advice to speak with a lawyer before entering a plea.
“You would appreciate this is an exceptionally serious charge and I suggest it would be prudent to get some legal advice this morning because this matter carries a significant prison term,” she said.
“I’m not trying to be condescending, I want to make sure this is a fully informed plea on your behalf.”
Asked if he was under the influence of any drugs or if he had any mental health concerns, Lawson said no.
Lawson also refused Scutt’s advice to permit her to order pre-sentence and psychiatric reports.
He did not apply for bail and was remanded in custody to appear in Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on August 21.
After the incident, police said Black’s life was likely saved by members of the public, who provided first aid at the scene.
“The victim has sustained significant injuries to his leg region ... there is a likelihood that he would have lost his life,” Superintendent Manus Walsh said.
“We are very, very thankful for the off-duty doctor and the member of the public who assisted in helping this victim.”
AAP