Key Points:
- Victim: Sohail Vawda, 23, died after being stabbed multiple times on the evening of 23rd October 2024.
- Location: Gilnow Gardens, Bolton, a residential street.
- Convicted Individuals:
- Lewis Harrison (22): Convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 24 years.
- Ethan Campbell (20): Convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 22 years.
- Circumstances: The attack was described as a targeted, brutal assault, with the victim suffering 18 stab wounds.
- Motive: The court heard that the motive behind the attack was related to a drug debt.
- Investigation: Greater Manchester Police (GMP) launched a murder investigation, leading to the swift arrests and subsequent convictions.
- Community Impact: The incident deeply shocked the local community in Bolton.
- Police Statement: Detective Chief Inspector Nicola Rigby of GMP's Major Incident Team expressed hope that the convictions would bring some closure to Mr Vawda's family.
- Family Statement: Mr Vawda's family released a heartfelt statement describing him as a "kind and gentle soul" and detailing the profound impact of his loss.
BOLTON, UK – In a harrowing case that has deeply affected the community of Bolton, two young men have been handed life sentences for the brutal murder of 23-year-old Sohail Vawda. Lewis Harrison, 22, and Ethan Campbell, 20, were convicted of murder following a trial and will now serve substantial minimum terms before being considered for parole. The convictions come after a meticulous investigation by Greater Manchester Police into the fatal stabbing that occurred on a quiet residential street last autumn .
What Happened on That Fateful October Evening?
According to reports from BBC News, the incident unfolded on the evening of 23rd October 2024, when Sohail Vawda was subjected to a ferocious attack on Gilnow Gardens in Bolton . The court heard how Mr Vawda sustained a staggering 18 stab wounds, highlighting the extreme violence of the assault . As reported by Manchester Evening News, the prosecution detailed that the attack was not random but a targeted act, with a drug debt emerging as the central motive behind the fatal encounter .
Who Are the Perpetrators and What Were Their Roles?
Lewis Harrison, 22, was identified as one of the primary aggressors in the attack . Following his conviction for murder, Harrison received a life sentence and will serve a minimum of 24 years behind bars before he can be considered for release . His accomplice, Ethan Campbell, 20, also faced a murder charge and was similarly handed a life sentence, with a minimum term of 22 years . As reported by Sky News, both individuals were quickly apprehended by Greater Manchester Police as part of their swift response to the murder . The court proceedings revealed the coordinated nature of their assault on Mr Vawda .
How Did the Police Respond to the Murder?
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) launched a full-scale murder investigation immediately following the discovery of Mr Vawda's body . Detective Chief Inspector Nicola Rigby, leading the Major Incident Team for GMP, oversaw the complex inquiry . As reported by The Bolton News, DCI Rigby confirmed that diligent police work led to the identification and arrest of Harrison and Campbell in the days following the murder . The investigation involved extensive forensic analysis, witness interviews, and gathering of evidence to build a robust case against the perpetrators .
What Was the Impact of the Verdict on the Victim’s Family and Community?
The family of Sohail Vawda released an emotional statement following the sentencing, as reported by The Guardian . They described Sohail as a "kind and gentle soul" whose life was tragically cut short . His loss has left an "unfillable void" in their lives, and they expressed the immense pain and grief they continue to endure . The brutal nature of the crime sent shockwaves through the local community in Bolton, prompting widespread concern and calls for justice . DCI Rigby acknowledged the devastating impact on Mr Vawda's loved ones, expressing hope that the convictions would provide some measure of comfort and closure to his grieving family . The outcome of the trial underscores the severe consequences of drug-related violence and aims to deliver justice for the victim and his family .