A 20-year-old man has been found guilty of murdering a mother who was attending Notting Hill Carnival with her young daughter when she was fatally stabbed during a violent altercation.
Cher Maximen, 32, was with friends and her three-year-old daughter at the west London street festival on 25 August 2024 when she was attacked. She died in hospital on 31 August from a 12cm deep knife wound to the groin, which caused catastrophic internal bleeding.
Shakeil Thibou, of London, was convicted of murder following a trial at [Court Name], where jurors heard how Cher had tried to intervene as a fight broke out nearby. She and her group had been sitting on the ground with their children when, according to prosecutors, they were caught in the middle of a “horrifying outbreak of violence.”
Victim Tried to Stop Violence
During the trial, prosecutor Ed Brown KC told the court that Ms Maximen was crouched down, chatting to friends, when the chaos erupted. In a selfless attempt to de-escalate the situation, she stepped in — only to be fatally stabbed.
“She was not looking for trouble. She was with her young daughter and friends, enjoying the carnival,” Mr Brown said. “She was trying to stop violence, not be a part of it — and it cost her life.”
Thibou was arrested shortly after the incident and charged with murder. He denied the charge, but the jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict.
Devastation for the Family
Ms Maximen’s death sent shockwaves through the community and sparked tributes from loved ones and local leaders. Her family described her as a devoted mother, full of life and kindness.
“Cher was full of love and light. She adored her daughter and was doing everything right. That her life ended in such a brutal way is beyond comprehension,” a family spokesperson said following the verdict.
Metropolitan Police Response
In a statement, the Metropolitan Police said:
“This was a senseless and tragic loss of life. Cher Maximen was simply trying to enjoy a family day out when she was caught up in a moment of brutal violence. Our thoughts remain with her family and young daughter.”
The force added that it continues to work closely with event organisers to ensure safety at future large-scale events such as Notting Hill Carnival.
Sentencing Date Set
Thibou is due to be sentenced at a later date. The court is expected to consider aggravating factors, including the public setting of the attack and the presence of young children.
The case has reignited calls for stronger measures to combat knife crime, particularly at major public gatherings.
