Logan MacPhail has been identified as the killer of 15-year-old Holly Newton in a tragic incident in Northumberland. The 17-year-old pursued Holly through Hexham town center, where he stabbed her 12 times and slashed her 19 times within just over a minute. Another boy who was with Holly at the time also tried to intervene and was wounded by MacPhail.
MacPhail, who was in a relationship with Holly, was found guilty of murder and wounding with intent. Holly’s mother had expressed concerns about MacPhail, and Holly herself had confided in a friend that he was behaving in a stalker-like manner towards her.
The attack occurred on January 27, 2023, after MacPhail followed Holly around the town center for about 45 minutes. He waited for her outside a pizza shop, lured her into an alleyway, and carried out the vicious attack, inflicting 36 knife wounds. Despite efforts to save her, Holly succumbed to her injuries at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary.
During the trial, MacPhail, who has autism and a low IQ, denied murder but admitted manslaughter, claiming he could not recall the events of that day. He alleged that he had intended to take his own life, and his sentencing is scheduled for October and November.
At the conclusion of the trial, Holly’s mother paid a heartfelt tribute to her daughter, describing her as a vibrant and caring individual who excelled in various activities, including sports and dancing.
The devastating loss of Holly Newton has left her family, friends, and the community in mourning. The senseless nature of her death serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues and preventing such tragic events from occurring in the future.
