A shocking case from the UK has unraveled involving Thomas Kwan, a 53-year-old family doctor who has confessed to attempting to murder his mother’s partner by administering poison disguised as a COVID-19 vaccine. Kwan arranged the fake medical appointment and even donned disguises, including a wig and fake facial hair, to carry out his sinister plan.
This chilling incident took place on January 22, 2024, when Kwan injected Patrick O’Hara, his mother’s then-partner, with the toxin. According to Northumbria Police, Kwan sent fraudulent letters to O’Hara, falsely claiming he needed to receive the vaccine. Concerned for his mother’s well-being and the inheritance arrangements, Kwan’s motivations appear deeply rooted, stemming from his desire to gain control over his mother’s assets.
CCTV footage reveals Kwan was exceptionally calculated; he presented himself as just another nurse, allowing him to administer the fake vaccine without raising suspicions. His effort to conceal his identity shows the lengths he was willing to go, deceiving both O’Hara and his own family. Tragically, after the injection, O’Hara experienced immediate adverse effects. Hours later, he had become seriously ill, developing severe skin conditions requiring hospitalization.
Described as “life-changing injuries” by the authorities, O’Hara battled necrotizing fasciitis, commonly known as flesh-eATING disease, which significantly ravaged his health. Hospital staff confirmed the letters affirming his injection were counterfeit, prompting them to alert the police. O’Hara underwent multiple operations, including skin grafts, to mend the extensive damage inflicted upon his body.
During the investigation, police uncovered grim evidence at Kwan’s residence, including files from what has been termed the “poisoner’s handbook,” alongside various guides on toxins and murder. The prosecutors emphasized the alarming depth of Kwan’s knowledge on poisons, which he employed to execute his malevolent plans.
After thorough investigations, which disclosed Kwan’s installation of monitoring software on his mother’s computer to keep track of her and O’Hara’s activities, Kwan was arrested. Prosecutors suggest his motives stemmed from inheritance concerns, as his mother’s will stated O’Hara would inherit her property should she pass away. These financial anxieties may have fueled Kwan’s reckless decision to resort to violent acts.
Despite initially pleading not guilty, Kwan later reversed his stance and admitted to the attempted murder charge, along with charges related to administering harmful substances. Following the overwhelming evidence presented against him, Kwan remains incarcerated and awaits sentencing.
Detective Chief Inspector Jason Henry of Northumbria Police stated, “The weight of evidence faced by Kwan was overwhelming, and he has now admitted to attempted murder. While nothing can change the impact of Kwan’s actions on his victim, we do hope the fact he has been brought to justice will help them move on with their life.” This case not only raises significant concerns about safety and trust within family dynamics but also emphasizes the potential for deception, even from those who are meant to protect us.
