Tragic Stabbings in Bristol Claim Lives of Teenagers Max Dixon, 16, and Mason Rist, 15
In a heartbreaking incident in Knowle West, Bristol, two teenagers, identified as Max Dixon, 16, and Mason Rist, 15, lost their lives after being stabbed in an attack carried out by a group of individuals on Saturday around 23:20 GMT. The assailants fled the scene in a car.
Bristol Stabbing: there was a vigil last night for the victims, named locally as 16-year-old Max Dixon & 15-year-old Mason Rist ➡️ https://t.co/6FKmJMnlBK pic.twitter.com/Y4pkANyA7c
— BBC West (@BBCBristol) January 29, 2024
Avon and Somerset Police disclosed that a 44-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy have been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbings and are currently in custody. Bristol Commander Supt Mark Runacres stated during a press conference that additional suspects within the responsible group are being actively sought.
A murder investigation has been initiated by the police, who have also seized a vehicle related to the incident. A vigil was held at the site of the stabbings, where the local community gathered to light candles in memory of the victims.
Supt Runacres urged potential witnesses, especially passengers on a bus on Ilminster Avenue at the time of the incident, to come forward. He expressed condolences to the families and announced the assignment of specialist family liaison officers for support.
A cordon has been established on Ilminster Avenue between Newquay Road and Tavistock Road, with a visible police presence conducting forensic searches and investigations. Formal identification of the victims is pending, and a forensic post-mortem will be scheduled.
Supt Runacres emphasized the importance of avoiding online sharing or discussion of information or images that could prejudice future proceedings. He also cautioned against the potential impact on the grieving families.
At a vigil, Leanne Reynolds, a local knife bin and bleed kit campaigner, conveyed the shock felt by the community. She advocated for removing large knives from the streets and expressed the need for more bleed kits and training in the community.
On Monday at 12:00, a meeting is scheduled for community members to engage with the police and council to address concerns and questions arising from this tragic incident. High-visibility patrols and a mobile police station near the scene aim to provide reassurance to the community during this difficult time.