Two adolescents who died in Bristol from stab wounds have been identified. Max Dixon, 16, and Mason Rist, 15, were attacked by a group on Ilminster Avenue in Knowle West around 23:20 GMT on Saturday, later dying in hospital. The attackers reportedly fled in a vehicle, according to Avon and Somerset Police.
A 44-year-old man and a 15-year-old child have been arrested and are in custody. On Sunday evening, a vigil was held at the scene, with community members laying flowers and lighting candles. Julia O’Reilly, a resident and one of the first on the scene, described her efforts to aid Mason.
Fundraisers for the boys’ funeral expenses have raised over £2,000 on GoFundMe. Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees, who attended the vigil, said the community was “rocked” and pledged support. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer highlighted the need for a “laser focus” on knife crime.
Bristol Police Commander Supt Mark Runacres announced a homicide investigation and is seeking additional suspects. A vehicle linked to the initial arrest has been seized. Supt Runacres is also seeking witnesses, including passengers on a bus on Ilminster Avenue at the time of the stabbings.
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Bristol Tragedy: Community and Police Response
The victims have not been formally identified; a forensic postmortem is planned. Ilminster Avenue remains cordoned off. Oasis Academy John Williams, attended by the victims, supports students and staff.
Police plan forensic investigations and high-visibility patrols for community reassurance. Supt Runacres expressed determination to solve the case and urged against online speculation that could jeopardize the investigation. He also warned of the impact on the families of the boys.
A community meeting with the council and police was held at noon GMT on Monday. Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford expressed deep sadness, emphasizing the tragedy’s impact on the families and community. Chief Constable Sarah Crew affirmed efforts to catch those responsible and highlighted the importance of community involvement in preventing such tragedies.
