Logan McPhail, a 17-year-old from Gateshead, has been sentenced to life in prison, with a minimum term of 17 years, for the murder of his 15-year-old ex-girlfriend, Holly Newton, in January 2023.
McPhail, who has autism and learning difficulties, was convicted following a trial at Newcastle Crown Court, where the details of his actions and the tragic aftermath were laid out.
The court heard that McPhail, unable to accept the end of their 18-month relationship, travelled to Holly’s town in Hexham and followed her before stabbing her 36 times in an alleyway.
The evening prior, he had reportedly waited outside her home in Northumberland before being escorted away by police. During the attack, a boy who attempted to intervene was also injured, and McPhail was convicted of wounding with intent in relation to this incident.
Holly’s mother, Micala Trussler, shared a powerful victim statement describing her daughter's compassionate nature and recounting the horror of arriving at the crime scene. She reflected on Holly’s caring attempts to support McPhail, including helping him learn to read.
Source:
The IndependentMrs. Trussler expressed the deep grief her family has endured, saying Holly “is missed beyond words and can never be described and never be forgotten.” In her memory, Mrs. Trussler is now raising funds for trauma boxes to aid those at risk of severe bleeding and aims to raise awareness among teenagers about identifying toxic relationships.
During sentencing, the court discussed McPhail’s culpability, with the prosecution pointing to evidence of his ability to plan, as shown by his journey to see Holly and his actions that evening. Though McPhail claimed he had not planned the attack and admitted to manslaughter, his story was rejected by the jury, who found him guilty of murder.
His defence highlighted his progress in secure accommodation, noting improved educational engagement and positive relationships with staff, which Mr. Justice Hilliard acknowledged as signs for him to build upon going forward.
Image:
ModusSource:
Hellorayo
