15-Year-Old Charged with Murder of 'Ambitious and Driven' Teenager Shayne Hambakachere
A 15-year-old boy has been formally charged with the murder of 16-year-old Shayne Hambakachere, who was tragically stabbed to death over the weekend in Chippenham. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, with heartfelt tributes being paid to the young victim described as an "ambitious and driven" individual.
Details of the Tragic Incident
Shayne Hambakachere, a 16-year-old pupil at Hardenhuish School in Chippenham, suffered critical injuries during an altercation on London Road, Chippenham, just before 4pm on Saturday. He was promptly rushed to Southmead Hospital in Bristol for emergency treatment but, despite the best efforts of medical staff, succumbed to his injuries and passed away.
The accused, a white British boy who cannot be named for legal reasons, was initially arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent. However, following further investigation, he was re-arrested on suspicion of murder on Tuesday and has now been formally charged with that offence. Wiltshire Police confirmed that the boy remains in custody and is scheduled to appear at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
Heartfelt Tributes from Family and Community
In a moving statement issued by Wiltshire Police, Shayne's father, Emmanuel Hambakachere, paid a poignant tribute to his son. He expressed profound gratitude to the staff at Southmead Hospital for their "wonderful care and support every step of the way." Mr Hambakachere stated, "Shayne will be greatly missed, he had a great sense of humour and we will miss the way he laughed so loudly without any care in the world."
He further highlighted the extraordinary compassion shown by hospital staff, noting that one doctor offered to drive from Bristol to Chippenham at 1am to fetch Shayne's sister so she could say a final goodbye to her brother. "We want you to know that we were touched by your kindness and we will forever be grateful," he added.
Shayne was remembered as a young man who loved going to the gym, worked diligently to earn his own money, and regularly assisted with household chores. His father described him as ambitious and driven, qualities that made his loss even more devastating for the family and friends who knew him.
Police Response and Community Impact
Wiltshire Police have extended their "sincere condolences" to Shayne's family and friends, acknowledging the significant concern this incident has caused within the Chippenham community. Detective investigators are actively urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward.
Members of the public are encouraged to contact the investigation team directly or to report information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. The police emphasise the importance of community cooperation in ensuring justice is served and in preventing such tragic events in the future.
This case underscores the ongoing challenges of youth violence and the profound impact it has on families and communities. As legal proceedings commence, the focus remains on supporting those affected and seeking closure through the judicial process.
