In a tragic case that shook the community, four teenagers have been handed lengthy prison sentences for the daylight murder of 17-year-old Kyle Hackland. Yousef Sesay, Lewis Ludford, Tafari Kosey-Smith, and Alife Benson faced justice after being found guilty in connection with the premeditated revenge attack that took place in Withington back in mid-November 2022.
Yousef Sesay of Denton Road, Audenshaw, received a 22-year sentence, while Lewis Ludford of Aylesby Avenue, Gorton, was sentenced to 21 years (with an additional two years concurrent for a bladed article). Tafari Kosey-Smith of Lancashire Hill, Stockport, received a 19-year sentence (with two years concurrent for a bladed article). Alife Benson of Wellington Road North, Stockport, was jailed for 12 years (with two years concurrent for burglary offences) after being found guilty of manslaughter.
The court heard that the four carried out a revenge attack following a drug deal where Yousef Sesay was robbed of approximately £1,000 by Kyle’s friend. The brutal incident, captured on CCTV, unfolded as the group, driving a stolen Volkswagen Golf, mistakenly targeted a Mercedes vehicle they believed was connected to Kyle’s friend.
Upon encountering Kyle and his friend walking along Southlea Road, the group carried out a violent assault with knives. Kyle’s friend managed to escape, leaving Kyle alone to face the devastating attack. The attackers were heard shouting ‘chef him’ multiple times before fleeing the scene in the stolen vehicle, leaving Kyle fatally injured.
Despite the efforts of bystanders and emergency services, Kyle succumbed to his catastrophic injuries shortly after being taken to the hospital.
Detective Chief Inspector David Moores, Senior Investigating Officer, emphasised the tragic consequences of carrying a knife and expressed condolences to Kyle’s loved ones. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of violence and the importance of addressing knife crime among young individuals.
Paying tribute to Kyle, his family described him as a kind, well-mannered young boy who looked out for his family. They expressed profound grief, emphasising that life will never be the same without him, and their family has been shattered by the loss.
