Boy was 'play hunting' before fatal stabbing, court told
A 16-year-old boy is on trial for the murder of nine-year-old Aria Thorpe, claiming the death was an accident during a 'play hunting' game. The prosecution alleges the teenager used a knife to scare the girl, resulting in a fatal wound.
Why it matters
This trial addresses a tragic case of youth violence and the legal distinction between accidental death and murder.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Chloe Harcombe , West of England and Andy Howard , Bristol Crown Court Family handout Nine-year-old Aria Thorpe died from a single stab wound to her chest in December 2025 A teenager accused of murdering a nine-year-old girl was playing a "hunting" game with her before she stepped into a knife, a court has heard.
The article provides a factual account of court proceedings, quoting both the prosecution and the defendant's statements.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in