Teen Murderer Found Guilty in Brutal Preston Stabbing
A man has been found guilty of murdering 16-year-old Sarmad Al-Saidi in a chilling attack in Preston. The verdict came today, July 27, after a vicious assault left the teenager fatally stabbed in a conservatory on Chatham Place.
Co-Conspirators Caught in Devastating Attack
The brutal killing involved three young males. A 16-year-old boy already pleaded guilty to the murder. Meanwhile, a 17-year-old lad was found guilty of conspiring to commit the serious assault that resulted in Sarmad’s death.
On December 23, police arrived at the scene at 5.43pm to find Sarmad with multiple stab wounds to his chest and legs. Despite emergency treatment and hospital care, he tragically died four days later without regaining consciousness.
Cold-Blooded Plot to Kill
- Detectives uncovered a callous plan orchestrated by 19-year-old Jamie Dixon and the 16-year-old attacker.
- A 17-year-old accomplice lured Sarmad with a fake £25 debt story and made sure he was unarmed before the strike.
- The 17-year-old even coaxed Sarmad to put down a machete, giving the green light for the deadly ambush.
- Dixon and the 16-year-old donned balaclavas and launched their savage attack with a hunting knife and machete.
- After stabbing Sarmad, they fled, leaving the 17-year-old to cover up their identities, including asking a witness to lie about a baseball bat.
Shocking Evidence and Boastful Confessions
Minutes after the attack, Dixon bragged about “doing” Sarmad during a call from a Young Offender’s Institution. Police later found video footage on the 16-year-old’s phone showing him waving the murder weapon and boasting about stabbing Sarmad.
Investigators revealed the attack was planned days in advance. The 17-year-old initially lied to police, claiming he was unaware of the attackers’ identities, but later admitted knowing who they were. The 16-year-old also changed his story, admitting involvement but insisting he did not intend to cause serious harm.
Justice for Sarmad
Today, at Liverpool Crown Court, Jamie Dixon was convicted of murder. The 17-year-old was found guilty of conspiracy to commit Section 18 assault but cleared of murder. Sentencing for all three will take place on September 30.
DCI Lee Wilson said: “This gratuitous and senseless violence has robbed a family of their much-loved son. The courage of Sarmad’s parents throughout this ordeal has been exemplary.”
“I welcome the jury’s decision. These three will now face justice for their cowardly actions. This tragic case shows how weapons and violence ruin lives in moments.”
“I urge young people to remember Sarmad’s story before carrying weapons. Violence is never the answer.”
