The devastated family of murdered 16-year-old Harvey Willgoose have broken their silence after his teenage killer was handed a life sentence, declaring they will never recover from their "nightmare" loss.
Life Sentence for Teenage Killer
In an emotionally charged hearing at Nottingham Crown Court, the 17-year-old murderer - who cannot be named for legal reasons - was ordered to serve a minimum of 16 years behind bars for the brutal stabbing that claimed Harvey's life last September.
The court heard how the violent altercation unfolded in the St Ann's area of Nottingham, leaving the promising young student with fatal injuries.
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
In a powerful victim impact statement read aloud in court, Harvey's grieving mother described her son as "the most loving, caring boy" whose life was cruelly cut short.
"Our family has been torn apart by Harvey's murder," she stated. "We are living every parent's worst nightmare and this pain will never leave us."
Family members packed the courtroom, many wearing T-shirts bearing Harvey's photograph as a poignant tribute to the much-loved teenager.
Community in Mourning
The sentencing brings some closure to a case that has shaken the Nottingham community to its core. Harvey, described by teachers as a bright student with a promising future, was fatally attacked just minutes from his family home.
Detective Chief Inspector Clare Dean, who led the investigation, praised the Willgoose family's dignity throughout the harrowing court process. "This is a tragic case that has devastated a family and impacted the wider community," she stated.
A Life Cut Short
As Harvey's killer begins his lengthy prison term, the Willgoose family faces a future forever altered by their unimaginable loss. They've vowed to keep Harvey's memory alive while campaigning against youth violence.
"No sentence will ever bring our Harvey back," his mother told the court. "But we hope this brings some measure of justice for our beautiful boy."
