In a tragic incident that shocked the community, a 15-year-old boy has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his classmate. Bardia Shojaeifard, previously unnamed due to reporting restrictions, was found guilty of stabbing 15-year-old Alfie Lewis to death last November.
The Incident
The fatal stabbing occurred in front of pupils leaving a primary school in the Horsforth area of Leeds. Shojaeifard, who was 14 at the time, attacked Alfie with a 13cm-long knife he had brought from home. Eyewitnesses reported that the victim tried to back away, pleading with the attacker to “chill out” and questioning his actions.
Alfie suffered two stab wounds, including one that penetrated his heart, causing catastrophic bleeding. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead in the hospital shortly afterwards.
Shojaeifard’s Background
Described as an “outwardly normal” boy, Shojaeifard’s disturbing interest in knives raised concerns. He claimed self-defence during the trial, but the jury found him guilty of murder. Mr. Justice Cotter, who lifted reporting restrictions, emphasised the importance of discussing knife crime among young people.
Previous Incidents
The court learned of two previous incidents involving both boys. Last July, Alfie intervened in a fight between Shojaeifard and another boy. Additionally, a week before the deadly attack, Shojaeifard had walked past Alfie’s house with a bag of fireworks, leading Alfie to issue a warning.
Victim Impact
Alfie’s mother, Heather Lane, addressed Shojaeifard directly during her victim impact statement: “No sentence will ever be enough for what you have done. I will never, ever forgive you.” Alfie’s older brother, Antony Lewis, described him as a “loving and caring little mate” who did not deserve such a fate.
Mr. Justice Cotter concluded by emphasising the danger of knife obsession: “Without your interest in knives, Alfie would be here today.”
