Four convicted after fatal stabbing
19-year-old Oliver Freckleton from Burton was attacked in 2021
Three men and a teenage girl have been convicted after a ‘kind, new dad’ was fatally stabbed in Burton.
Chardon Carlington Carnagie, 19, of Derby, was found guilty of murder and Mykel Elrol Paddifoot, 18, and a 17-year-old girl, both from Derby, were found guilty of manslaughter following a nine-week trial at Stafford Crown Court today (Tuesday 21 March).
Travel Reid, 21, of Derby, also pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Oliver during the trial on 27 February 2023.
Oliver Frecklton was at a birthday party at a house in Stretton in December 2021.
In the early hours of the next morning - the 19 year old was standing outside the front door when he was fatally stabbed.
Despite help from medics - he sadly died at the scene.
Witnesses at the party described some of the people, who turned up, as wearing balaclavas, and face masks.
They also described seeing one holding a ‘blade’ and another holding a gun.
Police say the attack was cowardly and senseless - and their thoughts are with Oliver's family.
Detective Inspector Adrian Webb, of the force’s Major Investigation Department, said: “This was a cowardly and senseless attack. It claimed the life of a much-loved young father, partner, son, and friend. Oliver’s murder continues to devastate his family and I express my deepest condolences to them.
“Whilst only Carnagie actually inflicted the fatal wound, those found guilty were there to encourage or help in the violence. They would have realised the risk of some harm.
“Some covered their faces, at least one carried a knife and another had a gun. Oliver was stabbed and another guest received slash wounds only minutes after they arrived. None of the suspects attempted to help or seek help for Oliver, who was left bleeding to death.
“Oliver was murdered a day before his 20th birthday and his young daughter will now have to grow up without him. It is tragic and, again, highlights the devastating consequences of carrying knives. Carrying a knife, too often, results in death, families destroyed and prison.
"Officers worked relentlessly to identify those convicted today and bring them before the courts to face justice, and I hope Oliver’s family are able to take some small comfort from today’s verdict.”
Sentencing will take place at Stafford Crown Court on a future date to be fixed.