Two teenagers have been sentenced for the fatal stabbing of Muhammad Ali, 17, who was killed in Victoria Square, Birmingham, earlier this year. The tragic incident occurred on 20 January, when Muhammad and a friend were confronted by two 15-year-old boys near the “Floozie in the Jacuzzi” fountain.
Muhammad and his friend, who had met at a dessert shop before walking to the square, were followed by the two teenagers. The pair demanded to know if they were involved in an earlier attack on one of their friends – an allegation both Muhammad and his friend denied. When Muhammad asked them to leave, one of the teens pulled out a knife and fatally stabbed him in the chest before fleeing.
Despite efforts by medical teams at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Muhammad succumbed to his injuries. A major investigation was launched, and CCTV footage led to the arrest of both suspects three days later.
At Birmingham Crown Court, the teenager responsible for the stabbing was sentenced to detention at His Majesty’s pleasure, with a minimum term of 13 years, while the other was given five years for manslaughter and possession of a bladed article.
Muhammad’s family expressed their deep grief, stating, “The loss of Muhammad is life-destroying… He dreamed of becoming an engineer, a dream that will now never come true.”
Detective Inspector Michelle Thurgood, who led the investigation, highlighted the ongoing impact of knife crime, saying, “Muhammad was simply enjoying a day out with a friend. There’s no evidence he knew his attackers.”
The West Midlands Police continues its commitment to tackling knife crime through Project Guardian, which includes increased patrols and educational outreach in schools and youth organisations.