In a tragic incident in Bristol, two teenagers, locally identified as Max Dixon, 16, and Mason Rist, 15, were fatally stabbed. The assault took place in Knowle West around 23:20 GMT on Saturday, and the victims succumbed to their injuries in the hospital. According to Avon and Somerset Police, the assailants fled the scene in a car. A 44-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy have been apprehended and are currently in custody.
Bristol Commander Supt Mark Runacres stated during a press conference that the police are pursuing additional suspects believed to be involved in the crime. A murder investigation has been launched, and a vehicle has been impounded.
A vigil was conducted at the site of the stabbings, where locals gathered to light candles. Supt Runacres expressed a desire to speak with passengers who were on a bus on Ilminster Avenue, where the incident occurred. He extended his sympathies to the victims’ families, assuring them of support and updates on the investigation.
The area between Newquay Road and Tavistock Road on Ilminster Avenue has been cordoned off for forensic searches and other inquiries. The formal identification of the victims and a forensic post-mortem are pending.
Supt Runacres expressed his determination to support the community and work with his team to bring the culprits to justice. A mobile police station will be set up near the crime scene, and high visibility patrols will be conducted for community reassurance.
Supt Runacres urged the public to refrain from sharing information or images online that could potentially jeopardize future proceedings. He also cautioned about the distress such actions could cause to the victims’ families.
Knife bin and bleed kit campaigner for the area, Leanne Reynolds, spoke at the vigil about the community’s shock and their demand for more bleed kits and training. A meeting is scheduled for Monday at 12:00 for community members to discuss the incident with the police and council.