Teen Convicted Murdering Man with Machete in Leeds

Romaine James, an 18-year-old from Leeds, was found guilty of murdering 23-year-old Saymore T Kwashira by stabbing him with a machete during a gathering at a flat in the Belle Isle area. The fatal attack occurred after the group had been inhaling nitrous oxide and an argument broke out between James and Kwashira, leading to Kwashira being stabbed in the neck and stomach. James and the two other men present fled the scene in a taxi, with CCTV footage capturing James holding what appeared to be a machete. West Yorkshire Police described the incident as a senseless and brutal attack, emphasizing the devastating impact of carrying weapons like machetes. James claimed self-defense, but the jury rejected this defense, resulting in his conviction at Leeds Crown Court. He has been remanded in custody and is awaiting sentencing on November 5.