Hexham, United Kingdom – A court’s recent decision to lift reporting restrictions has identified a teenager convicted of fatally stabbing his former girlfriend in a street attack driven by jealousy. Logan MacPhail, now 17, was found guilty of the murder of 15-year-old Holly Newton after a trial that unearthed troubling details about the case.
The incident, which occurred in January in the quiet town of Hexham, Northumberland, exposed the unsettling reality of youth violence and relationship-driven crimes. MacPhail, reportedly unable to accept the end of his relationship with Newton, followed her as she spent time in the town center with friends. His attack culminated in a secluded alleyway where he inflicted 36 knife wounds on Newton using a kitchen knife he had brought from his Gateshead home.
During the court proceedings at Newcastle Crown Court, it was revealed that MacPhail had met Newton at Army cadets. The prosecution described a scenario where MacPhail’s jealousy and despair over their broken 18-month relationship led to the tragic evening. The court learned that on the day of the attack, MacPhail had left the special school he attended in Tyneside and traveled by bus to Hexham, ultimately confronting Newton around 5 p.m.
The case’s complexity deepened with insights into MacPhail’s background, marked by his diagnosed autism and a reported low IQ. Furthermore, his actions the night before the murder highlighted the extent of his obsession. The court was told that MacPhail had made a 40-mile journey to Newton’s residence in Haltwhistle, lingering nearby until police, alerted by his mother after reporting him missing, returned him home.
The severity of the situation had been previously noted by Newton’s mother, Micala Trussler, who had been so worried about MacPhail’s intentions that she had plans to keep her daughter inside school premises if he appeared outside.
Justice Hilliard, while announcing his decision to lift the anonymity typically granted to minors, underscored the importance of public awareness regarding the perpetrator and nature of the crime. The judge noted that disclosing MacPhail’s identity and connection to Newton provided necessary context to the grievous act, contributing to broader discussions on knife crime and violence against women and girls.
Additionally, MacPhail was found guilty of wounding a boy who courageously intervened in an attempt to halt the attack on Newton. Despite his numerous challenges, MacPhail participated predominantly from a secure facility throughout his trial, where accommodations were made due to his learning difficulties.
Denying the murder charge, MacPhail had admitted to manslaughter, suggesting he had blacked out and never intended to use the knife on Newton, but instead on himself. His sentencing is scheduled for the end of the month, concluding a case that has deeply affected the local community and reignited debate on youth violence and the safety of young women.