Boy, 15, denies murdering teenager in Chippenham
16-year-old Shayne Hambakachere died in hospital after being found seriously injured in January
Last updated 6 hours ago
A 15-year-old boy has denied murdering a 16-year-old student in Wiltshire.
The youth, who cannot be named due to his age, appeared before Bristol Crown Court today (2nd March).
He is charged with murdering Shayne Hambakachere, who was found seriously injured in Chippenham shortly before 4pm on January 31.
Shayne, a Year 11 schoolboy, was taken from the scene to Southmead Hospital in Bristol, where he died.
Judge Anna Richardson told the defendant that he would remain in youth detention ahead of his trial on August 10.
The boy spoke to confirm his name and reply “not guilty” after the charge of murder was read to him.
The trial is expected to last for two weeks, with the next court hearing set for 20th May.
A reporting restriction was previously put in place to prohibit publication of details likely to lead to the identification of the defendant.
Sarah Jones KC appeared for the prosecution and Alex Daymond represented the defendant.
Shayne’s father, Emmanuel Hambakachere, previously paid tribute to his son in a statement released by Wiltshire Police.
“At home he made sure he would do his chores on a daily basis, he always came home before his curfew and always communicated every time he left the house or came back,” he said.
“He was very helpful around the house and did whatever was asked of him without complaining. He was also very smart and tidy, he would not leave for school without making his bed.
“Shayne was a brave and bold young man, he was never afraid to speak his mind or to stand up for what he believed in.”
Flowers and tributes were left at Hardenhuish School in Chippenham, where Shayne was a pupil.
In a statement, the school said: “The Hardenhuish School community is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our Year 11 students, Shayne Hambakachere, following an incident in Chippenham on Saturday.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.
“We are taking the time to remember this wonderful young person who had such a promising life ahead and to support our whole community in coming to terms with his loss and this tragic event.”