Five Found Guilty of Murdering Bristol Boys Max Dixon and Mason Rist
Five people have been convicted over the tragic murders of 16-year-old Max Dixon and 15-year-old Mason Rist this January. The teenagers were fatally stabbed in Ilminster Avenue after being mistakenly targeted by a group hunting suspects linked to earlier vandalism in Hartcliffe.
Harsh Verdict After Six-Week Trial
Following a tense six-week trial at Bristol Crown Court, jurors found the defendants guilty on nine charges of murder. One defendant had already pleaded guilty to one of the two murder charges he faced.
Mason’s Family Speaks Out
“Our family is like a jigsaw puzzle and, with the loss of Mason, a piece is gone forever,” said Mason’s family. “He was quiet, lovely, and innocent – never hurting a fly. This whole ordeal has been unbearable, and it’s painful to think of Mason’s last moments.
“These dangerous individuals took away our son, brother, nephew, uncle, and grandchild. We must now navigate life missing a vital piece of our family.”
They thanked the investigation team and family liaison officers for their tireless work and support throughout the case.
Max’s Family Remembers Their Son
“Max was full of life, funny, kind, and popular with friends,” said his family. “He and Mason were friends since nursery – a funny pair, totally different but bringing out the best in each other.
“Though today’s verdict won’t bring them back, it helps us start to process this tragedy and cherish the happy memories. We’re broken without Max, but he’d want us to carry on joyfully.
“We’re forever grateful to the police and everyone involved for their hard work and support.”
The Attack That Shocked Bristol
- Antony Snook, 45, drove the gang of four teens – aged 15 to 18 – from Hartcliffe to Knowle on the night of the attack.
- All four teens were armed with knives and other weapons.
- Acting on mistaken identity, they chased down Max and Mason and stabbed them multiple times.
- CCTV footage showed Snook’s car circling before the teens leapt out and carried out the brutal assault.
- Despite emergency efforts, Max and Mason died in hospital from severe injuries.
Snook was found guilty of two counts of murder and faces sentencing on 19 November. The four teenagers will be sentenced on 16 December, with one having already pleaded guilty to one murder.
Police Praise Community and Hard Work Behind Case
Detective Superintendent Gary Haskins: “I’m humbled by the families’ strength during this difficult trial. These five went out seeking revenge but ended the lives of two innocent boys. The injuries were fatal, but thanks to police, paramedics, and the public, first aid was swiftly given.
“This massive investigation involved over 200 officers from multiple forces and agencies. We gathered nearly 1,600 exhibits and took hundreds of statements, bringing these killers to justice.”
The Bristol community mourned deeply, holding vigils and moments of applause at sports events to honour Max and Mason.
Chief Crown Prosecutor Vicky Cook: “This horrific case showed a coordinated attack by all five defendants. Armed with knives, the youths hunted for revenge, wrongly targeting Max and Mason. Anthony Snook drove the getaway car, fully aware of their deadly intent.”
“These verdicts remind us knives only bring tragedy. The families’ loss is unimaginable, and our thoughts remain with them.”
A further trial is set for the new year relating to charges of assisting an offender linked to the case.
