England: Pakistani teen jailed for Sheffield school murder of classmate at age 15

Published on: 23 Oct 2025 at 02:59 PM

Published by: Gill Bikram

Pakistani teen jailed for Sheffield school murder of classmate at age 15

A shocking crime in England has drawn international attention after a Pakistani-origin teenager was sentenced to life imprisonment for murdering his 15-year-old classmate inside a school. The convicted boy, identified as Mohammed Umar Khan, was just 15 years old when he fatally stabbed another student during school hours in Sheffield, South Yorkshire.

Judge lifts anonymity and orders life sentence

Sheffield Crown Court Judge Naomi Ellenbogen removed the anonymity order protecting the teen’s identity after sentencing him to life imprisonment. Under the ruling, Khan will serve at least 16 years behind bars before being eligible for parole. The judge condemned Khan’s “long-standing fascination with weapons,” describing the killing as both deliberate and deeply disturbing.

What led to the fatal attack

The court heard that the stabbing occurred on February 3, inside All Saints Catholic High School in Sheffield. Police were called to the scene after reports of a violent altercation between students. Victim Harvey Wilgus was found critically injured with stab wounds, and Umar Khan was arrested immediately at the scene.

Prosecutors revealed that the two boys had fought a week earlier, and Khan later brought a knife to school. During the trial, Khan claimed that he carried the weapon for “self-protection” and acted in self-defense. However, the jury rejected his plea and found him guilty of murder in August.

Police and family reactions

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Knowles of the South Yorkshire Police said the case exposed a “false and tragic belief” among some youth that carrying knives ensures safety or respect. “This devastating incident shows the reality — a life lost, another destroyed, and families left in grief,” he said.

Judge Ellenbogen noted that Harvey’s family remains traumatized after viewing CCTV footage of the attack. “His absence is felt every single day,” she added, as the courtroom observed a moment of silence for the young victim.

Knife crime concern in the UK

The case has reignited public debate over knife crime among teenagers in the United Kingdom. Lawmakers and educators have called for stronger school security and awareness programs to discourage students from carrying weapons.