Teen jealousy turns deadly: Mother advocates for change after daughter's murder
The mother of 15-year-old Holly Newton, who was tragically murdered by her ex-boyfriend, shared her pain during the court trial. Holly was stabbed by Logan MacPhail, who followed her through the centre of Hexham in England before attacking her. The incident occurred in January 2023.
According to the "Daily Mail," during the trial at Newcastle Crown Court, Holly's mother, Micala Trussler, read an emotional statement. "The last time I saw my daughter was that morning. I never saw her with open eyes again. I didn't hear her last words," she said.
Once in hospital, I was then unable to even touch my daughter, hug her, kiss her, or hold her hand. My daughter was a crime scene, she was evidence," said Micala Trussler.
Currently, 17-year-old MacPhail has been found guilty of Holly's murder and of wounding a boy who attempted to stop the attack. Initially, he claimed he did not plan the attack and intended to use the knife to take his own life, but the jury rejected his explanations.
The teenager could not handle the breakup. "He became obsessive"
Ms. Trussler described how her daughter's relationship with MacPhail changed when Holly ended it. "I firmly believe that Logan thought if he couldn’t have Holly then no one could, he became obsessed with her," she stated. She highlighted the fact that individuals under the age of 16 are not formally recognized as victims of domestic violence and expressed hope for a change in the law to address this issue.
Holly's mother is currently running a fundraiser to purchase rescue kits that can save the lives of those at risk of severe blood loss. Additionally, she aims to educate young people about recognizing toxic relationships.
Soon, the judge will announce the sentence in MacPhail's case, determining the minimum period he must spend in prison before he can apply for parole. This sentence will be significant for the defendant's future, as it will dictate when he can apply for early release from the correctional facility.
