A 21-year-old student from Croydon, Nasen Saadi, has been jailed for life after being found guilty of the murder of Amie Gray and the attempted murder of Leanne Miles during a horrifying knife attack on Durley Chine Beach in Bournemouth.
Saadi was sentenced today at Winchester Crown Court and will serve a minimum of 39 years before being eligible for parole.
Brutal Attack on Peaceful Beachgoers
On the night of 24 May 2024, Amie Gray and her friend Leanne were sitting beside a fire, enjoying a moonlit evening on the beach, when they were suddenly and viciously attacked by a man they had never met.
Saadi stabbed both women multiple times, killing 34-year-old Amie at the scene. Leanne sustained serious injuries but survived.
‘Carefully Planned’ Murder
Detectives from Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) led a detailed and urgent investigation into the random attack. CCTV footage, along with financial data linked to a bank card purchase made earlier that day, helped identify Saadi as the suspect.
Investigators later discovered that Saadi had travelled from London to Bournemouth with the apparent intention of committing murder, choosing the location for its sandy beach. Officers believe the attack was premeditated and opportunistic.
Arrest and Refusal to Cooperate
Saadi was arrested at his home in Croydon on 28 May 2024. During the investigation, he refused to provide access to his mobile phone, in breach of a court order. He later pleaded guilty to an offence under Section 49 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA).
Victim’s Family and Police React
Detective Inspector Mark Jenkins, of Dorset Police, said:
“We poured everything into catching this brutal killer. More than 100 officers and staff worked on this investigation.
Saadi deliberately chose his victims and location with the intention to kill. This was a horrific, unprovoked attack on two innocent women.”
He praised the support of the local community, especially nearby businesses who shared CCTV and crucial information.
Tributes and Condolences
Benjamin May, Senior Crown Prosecutor with CPS Wessex, paid tribute to Amie Gray, describing her final moments as a “courageous act” to protect her friend.
“Amie’s life was tragically cut short, and her bravery will be remembered forever.
Saadi’s perverse fascination with violence turned into a real-world horror. He has now faced justice.”
He added:
“Women should be free to live without fear of violence. The CPS is unwavering in its commitment to pursue justice for victims.”
Saadi now begins a life sentence for an act that has shocked the nation. The case has once again raised important questions about violence against women and the need for continued efforts to ensure public safety.
