Tyler West Credits Car Horn for Life-Saving Action After Witnessing Stabbing
Tyler West has revealed how a childhood trauma shaped his life and mental health. The 30-year-old KISS FM presenter described the long aftermath of witnessing a fatal stabbing at 14.
The attack and immediate response
The incident took place outside his family home on the St Helier council estate in south London. He says two men used a roughly 12-inch blade to slash a victim’s neck.
West and his mother rushed to help as the attackers retreated into a nearby flat. Emergency services were called, but police did not arrive for more than ten minutes.
Long-term mental health effects
West said the killing left him unable to function for years. He developed severe obsessive-compulsive disorder and rigid safety rituals.
He avoided opening blinds and kept his bedroom in darkness. He also refused to use cutlery and feared walking on the same side of the street as the attack.
Televised violence and people drinking near him triggered intense anxiety. He missed large amounts of school during this period.
How a car horn interrupted a suicide attempt
Three years later, at 17, West reached his lowest point. He walked onto a bridge over the A217 late at night with his phone dead.
A passing motorist sounded their horn at about 4.30am. West credits that honk with pulling him back from a suicidal moment and describes it as life-saving.
In his own words, a simple sound stopped him stepping further into danger. Tyler West credits a car horn with a life-saving interruption after the trauma of witnessing the stabbing.
Career and personal life
West competed on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022. He also presented showbiz segments on Lorraine.
He began a relationship with EastEnders actress Molly Rainford in 2023 after meeting on Strictly. The couple became engaged in August during a holiday in Greece.
West now fronts the BBC companion podcast Race Across The World: The Detour. He presents alongside Alfie Watts and has hosted guests including Rainford and Kola Bokinni.
Replacement on the podcast
His appointment followed the removal of Scott Mills from BBC projects. Mills was dismissed in late March amid allegations about past conduct. No charges were brought after police reviewed earlier claims.
Concerns over the court process
West has criticised how he was treated as a witness. He says he was shown graphic photographs of the scene and the weapon during court proceedings.
He remains angry about those decisions but says he has worked to find some peace within that anger.
For anyone struggling, support is available. Samaritans offer a 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected], or visit a local branch or their website.
This report is published by Filmogaz.com.
