Two young men from England have received life sentences for the brutal murder of their former friend, Lucas Sutton. The attack took place on May 23, 2023, and the two men were found guilty earlier this month.
Lucas, a 22-year-old father, was lured to a location in Croydon, London, where he was fatally stabbed as he returned from a local shop. Authorities reported that Keahn Williams, 21, and Kai Nelson-Palmer, who recently turned 18, had plotted the attack by messaging each other on Snapchat.
In a statement, Lucas’s family expressed their grief, saying, “The murder of Lucas has left a large hole in our lives which can never be filled.” They described him as a flawed but loved individual who had a bright future ahead.
The police revealed that the two suspects had been planning the attack in the days leading up to it, preparing to ambush Lucas without him having any idea of their intentions. On the night of the murder, Williams attacked Lucas with a knife as he walked home after buying drinks. As Lucas tried to escape, he was chased and stabbed again.
Despite seeking help at a nearby pub, Lucas collapsed and later died in the hospital. The police confirmed that Williams was seen on CCTV wearing a balaclava during the incident, with evidence linking him to the crime found at his residence.
Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie stated that the attack was premeditated and emphasized the deep emotional impact it has left on Lucas’s loved ones. He noted that Lucas had sensed he was in danger in the weeks leading up to the attack but did not suspect that his friends were involved.
In a heartfelt message, Lucas’s family shared how they feel the loss every day, mourning not just for him but for the future his young son will miss out on without his father. They reflected on the love and joy that have been taken from them, highlighting the lasting effects of this tragic event.
