The 57‑year‑old remains on the run five days after the attack, which left the victim with serious injuries as she fled through the Picton Terrace entrance calling for help. Officers say she is now expected to make a full recovery.
Dyfed‑Powys Police confirmed today that teams have been working “continuously” across the weekend, carrying out extensive searches inside the park and across surrounding allotments, woodland and wetlands. Specialist dog units, drone pilots and forensic teams have all been deployed as the force widens its search area along the Towy riverbank and locations McKenna is known to visit.
A knife believed to have been used in the attack has now been recovered, along with a rucksack found during the systematic searches. Detectives are also examining digital and financial activity and have checked with transport operators to establish whether McKenna attempted to leave the area — though officers currently believe he has remained local.
Detective Chief Superintendent Ross Evans said:
“I assure that we are doing all we can to locate James McKenna, and that our work has been continuous over the weekend and into today.
Having processed the initial scenes of interest inside and immediately outside Carmarthen Park, our search areas have expanded to include large wooded areas, the Towy riverbank and places he is known to frequent.
We do not believe at this time that he has used any mode of transport to leave the area, however if anyone has any information that could suggest otherwise, we urge them to get in touch.”
He added that the victim, despite suffering multiple stab wounds, is not believed to have life‑changing injuries.
Detective Chief Superintendent Evans said:
“We wish her well as she recovers, and are ensuring she is supported both by our officers and external organisations.”
Police thanked residents for their patience as the large‑scale search continues, with neighbourhood teams remaining in the area to reassure the public.
McKenna is described as white, 5ft 7in tall, bald with white facial hair, and was last seen wearing a green coat and blue beanie hat.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police online via the dedicated portal, email 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, call 101, or dial 999 in an emergency. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
