A chilling scene unfolded at a Blackpool social club in September, forever altering the lives of two formerCountdowncontestants. John Cowen, a familiar face from the Channel 4 game show, attacked fellow player Thomas Carey with a knife during an unofficial tournament, leaving Carey with a stab wound to the arm.
Security footage revealed Cowen entering the room brandishing two kitchen knives, one already gripped in his hand, a clear signal of intent. The judge described the act as a “terrifying incident of deliberate violence,” emphasizing the potential for far more grievous harm. Cowen was immediately apprehended and charged with wounding and possession of a bladed article.
However, the case took a tragic turn when Cowen was deemed unfit to stand trial following assessments by two psychiatrists. The court learned he was “seriously mentally unwell,” and the proceedings shifted to a fact-finding hearing conducted via video link from Guild Lodge psychiatric hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.
The unsettling motive appeared to stem from a dispute over aCountdownapp, used by some players to aid their game. Judge Mathieson revealed that Carey was “at a complete loss” as to why he had been targeted. The attack left Carey deeply shaken and questioning the reason for the violent outburst.
Ultimately, Cowen was handed an indefinite hospital order, with doctors determining he suffers from schizophrenia. The judge noted Cowen’s “hostile” attitude towards treatment, making community-based care ineffective. He will remain hospitalized until deemed safe for release, a decision requiring approval from the Secretary of State for Justice.
The two men had a history, both as members of theCountdownfan community. Carey had been involved since 2011, and knew Cowen from previous events. Cowen himself had enjoyed a successful run on the show in 2017, achieving the third-highest score of his series and demonstrating remarkable skill with words, even spotting a nine-letter word.
He continued to dominate, winning eight consecutive contests before finally being defeated. This once-celebrated intellect is now consumed by illness, a stark reminder of the hidden battles some individuals face, and the devastating consequences that can unfold.
The hospital order, under the Mental Health Act, ensures Cowen will not be discharged without the explicit consent of either the Secretary of State for Justice or a designated Tribunal, safeguarding both his well-being and public safety.
