News / Crime
Two teens jailed for ‘utterly senseless’ murder of Darrian Williams
Two teenagers who murdered 16-year-old Darrian Williams when they were just 15 have been jailed.
Darrian was fatally stabbed in Rawnsley Park in Easton on February 14 and died a short while later.
The boys, who are both now 16 and cannot be named because of their age, were found guilty of murder in November and have now received life sentences in prison.
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Darrian’s mum, Charlene Williams, said her son’s death had caused “unfathomable pain”.
In a statement read out in court, she said: “Darrian was tragically murdered at just 16 years of age due to knife crime and his life has been stolen and with it the light and joy he brought to our family.
“The grief and devastation are beyond words and my life, and the life of those who loved Darrian will never be the same.
“Darrian was my child, a beloved brother, grandson, nephew and friend, and a source of happiness for all of us. His loss has torn our family apart and has left wounds that will never heal.
“As a mother, I feel lost, traumatised and I feel like I now live with a pain that can never go away.
“Living without him has broken me in a way I cannot fully describe and each day without him is another reminder of what I have lost. I feel that all joy and peace has gone forever.”
Tributes on West Street to Darrian Williams, 16, who died after being attacked in Rawnsley Park in Easton – photo Ellie Pipe
After sustaining the fatal stab wound to his back in Rawnsley Park, Darrian fled to Easton Way where he flagged down motorists for help.
A van driver then took him to West Street in Old Market where, despite the efforts of members of the public and medics, Darrian died.
Avon & Somerset Police senior investigating officer, detective inspector Neil Meade, said: “Darrian’s killing was utterly senseless and I’m pleased that today the two boys responsible have been handed prison sentences.
“He was your typical 16-year-old boy hanging out with his friends in the park when he was set upon by these two boys who were clearly intent on causing him serious harm and ultimately killed him.
“Darrian’s family have spoken bravely about the effect his death has had on them and they deserve a huge amount of credit for how they have dealt with what has been an unimaginably difficult ten months for them.”
The scene in Rawnsley Park following the fatal stabbing of Darrian on February 14 – photo: Mia Vines Booth
Both boys who murdered Darrian will serve a minimum of 15 years and 76 days in prison before being eligible for parole.
They were each given an additional three and four months, to run concurrently, for being in possession of a bladed article.
Main photo: family
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