Holly Newton, a 15-year-old girl, was tragically fatally stabbed 36 times while walking home from school in Hexham, Northumberland, in January 2023.

Prior to the attack, Holly had been stalked by a 17-year-old boy for approximately 45 minutes as she visited shops with friends.

Unaware that he was armed with a knife, Holly reluctantly agreed to speak with the boy in an alleyway.

The attack lasted less than a minute, during which Holly suffered 12 stab wounds and 19 slashes, in addition to five defensive injuries.

Witnesses attempted to help Holly, but the defendant continued to stab her until he was restrained by bystanders.

The attacker, whose identity is protected due to his age, had stalked Holly for nearly an hour before the fatal incident.

Despite being rushed to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, Holly was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

The jury found the defendant guilty of murder at Newcastle Crown Court, with sentencing scheduled for October 31.

While the defendant admitted to manslaughter, he denied the murder charge, claiming he intended to take his own life.

Holly's mother had contacted the police out of concern for her daughter's safety shortly before the attack.

Following the trial, the judge emphasized the devastating impact of knife violence on families and communities.

In a heartfelt tribute, Holly's mother described her daughter as a loving teenager with a deep affection for animals, particularly her pet cat.