Teen Admits Manslaughter, Cites Racist Bullying in Sheffield School Stabbing

A 15-year-old boy on trial for the murder of fellow pupil Harvey Willgoose at All Saints Catholic High School in Sheffield has claimed years of racist bullying and social media harassment left him with anger control issues. The defendant detailed experiencing taunts about a medical condition and racist abuse both in school and online, including threats such as “I’ll stab you up,” which made him feel scared and unable to escape the bullying. He admitted to stabbing Harvey in the school courtyard in February but denies murder, acknowledging manslaughter and possession of a knife on school premises. The boy described a troubled home life, including parental neglect and abuse, which compounded his difficulties in managing his temper. Defense counsel argued the stabbing was the culmination of prolonged bullying, poor treatment, and violence rather than a premeditated act. CCTV footage of the stabbing has been presented to the jury, which is considering the evidence amid the defendant’s testimony about his emotional state and the impact of bullying on his behavior.