Boy jailed for murder of Luka Bennett-Smith in Bristol

A 17-year-old boy has been jailed for life with a minimum term of 10 years after he admitted fatally stabbing and strangling his sister, Luka Bennett-Smith, in the St Andrew’s area of Bristol last year.

Mali Bennett-Smith, of Cromwell Road in Bristol, pleaded guilty to murder and was sentenced when he appeared at Bristol Crown Court today (10 March). He can be named after the judge lifted restrictions preventing his name being reported due to his age.

Despite the efforts of emergency services to save her, Luka died of multiple stab wounds and strangulation after she was attacked at a property in Cromwell Road on Sunday 20 October.

Mali was arrested at the scene and was charged with his sister’s murder two days later by detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Team.

Det Insp Nadine Partridge, the senior investigating officer, said: “Our thoughts remain fully with Luka’s family at this difficult time. They continue to be updated and supported by specially trained family liaison officers.

“They have asked for privacy while they continue to process the tragic events of that night and I would urge everyone to please respect their wishes.”