Man Jailed for 24 Years after Attempted Murder

A man has today been jailed for 24 years with another 5 years on extended licence, for assaulting another man, leaving him with life-changing injuries.

34-year-old Alex Ibbetson, of no fixed abode, assaulted the 69-year-old man on the evening of Thursday 2^nd October 2025, at an address on Richmond Court, before the assault then spilled out into the street.

Police and other emergency services attended the scene, where the 69-year-old victim, Mr Norlund, was found with serious head injuries and remained critically ill at James Cook University Hospital for some time.

Mr Norlund’s son described his father’s injuries as “so bad it looked like he had been hit by a car”.

The injuries included multiple bleeds on the brain, permanent disfigurement and scars. He has suffered loss of memory and he has had to learn to walk again. His speech is affected, he has anxiety and panic attacks, and it is unclear to what extent he will recover.

In a victim impact statement provided to the court, Mr Norlund’s family said: “He is the one who has been dealt a life sentence following this horrendous attack. He will never be the same again – it’s a life changing injury, both physically and mentally.

“Both his children spent all day every day for the initial two weeks by his bedside, waiting for signs of response.

“The hardest thing to come to terms with is that we don’t know what the future looks like. We’re at the very beginning of a journey that will last the rest of his life and there are many challenges and obstacles ahead. We don’t know to what extent we’ll get the dad we know back. To see him like he currently is heartbreaking for us all. He is extremely vulnerable and completely reliant on the care of others which, for a previously very independent and strong person, is really difficult to see.”

Jailed: Alex Ibbetson pictured above 

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Michaela Sanderson, said: “This was a horrendous attack which has led to the victim being left with life-changing injuries, and sadly it’s unclear if he will ever fully recover.

“Ibbetson carried out an unprovoked and prolonged attack. He proved that he is a danger to the public and I am pleased that he is now in jail, where he cannot harm anyone else.

“I have seen what a significant impact this has had on Mr NorIund and his family. I hope that today’s outcome brings some comfort to them, and I would like to commend them for their patience and dignity throughout this investigation and court process. I wish Mr Norlund the best of luck as he navigates his recovery.”