A JURY has failed to reach a verdict in an attempted murder trial.

Eric Cantona Brophy, 18, of St Mary’s Road, Southend, admitted maliciously wounding Kaz Salih, 20, with intent to cause grievous bodily harm when he appeared at Basildon Crown Court last week.

He stabbed Mr Salih repeatedly with a bread knife in the back, arms and legs in broad daylight in Fairfax Drive, Westcliff, on July 11, but denied attempted murder.

After nearly nine hours of deliberation, the jury was unable to reach a verdict.

Brophy remains in custody and will be sentenced for GBH later this month, along with four robberies and two attempted robberies he also admitted.

Mr Salih received life-threatening injuries to his lung and had to be given specialist treatment at the Royal London Hospital.

His Honour Judge Lodge told Brophy after the verdict that he still faced very serious charges.

He also commended witness Samantha McDonald for her courage in coming to Mr Salih’s aid after the attack despite the attackers still being in the vicinity.

She was awarded £250 from the High Sheriff’s Fund.