Bristol, England – A man has been charged with the murders of two teenagers in Bristol. Anthony Snook, 44, is accused of the murders of Mason Rist, 15, and Max Dixon, 16, who were killed in the Knowle West area of the city on Saturday night. The tragic incident occurred at around 23:20 GMT when the two teenagers were attacked by a group of people in Ilminster Avenue. Members of the public and police officers went to their aid, but they later succumbed to their injuries in the hospital.
This devastating crime has shocked the community, prompting a swift and comprehensive police response. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed the murder charges at a media briefing on Wednesday evening, revealing that a total of eight people have been arrested as part of the investigation, with five still in police custody and two released on bail.
The murder charges were authorized by the Crown Prosecution Service following a review of the evidence put together by the investigation team. Detectives from the force’s major crime investigation team shared that the charge is a “pivotal moment” in the inquiry, with more than 100 officers and staff working tirelessly on the case.
In addition to Mr. Snook, two boys aged 15 and 16 have been arrested on suspicion of murder, while a 46-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. Furthermore, a 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody, along with a 26-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. A 20-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder and possession of an offensive weapon has been released with no further action in relation to the murder offense and bailed in relation to the offensive weapon offense.
The tragedy has left the community in mourning, with members releasing balloons for the boys and Max’s father leaving a candle, card, and message at a vigil to honor their memory. The investigation, described as “continuing at pace” by the police, reflects the commitment to seeking justice for Mason and Max, and bringing closure to their grieving loved ones. The upcoming court appearance of Mr. Snook at Bristol Magistrates’ Court is a significant development in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.