Bath, Somerset – A tragic incident unfolded at a 16th birthday party in Bath, Somerset, resulting in the fatal stabbing of Mikey Roynon by Shane Cunningham, Leo Knight, and Cartel Bushnell. The three teenagers, all 16 years old, were involved in a heated argument that led to the tragic loss of Mikey’s life on June 10, 2023. Cunningham was convicted of murder, while Knight and Bushnell were convicted of manslaughter after being acquitted of a more serious charge.
The sentencing took place at Bristol Crown Court, where Mr. Justice Saini imposed a life sentence on Cunningham with a minimum term of 16 years before parole consideration. Bushnell received a sentence of nine years, and Knight was detained for nine years and six months. The case garnered attention for its senseless nature, as Mikey’s devastated family shared their victim impact statements in court.
Mikey’s mother, Hayley Ryall, expressed her profound grief, stating that she could no longer bear to look at photos of her son, knowing she would never see him again. Similarly, Mikey’s father, Michael Roynon, shared the deep sense of loss and anguish he felt at the tragic death of his son. The family’s pain was palpable as they described the enduring impact of Mikey’s untimely passing.
During the trial, it was revealed that Cunningham had stabbed Mikey, claiming self-defense in response to a perceived threat. The defendants fled the party after the altercation, discarding their weapons and clothing. Despite the guilty verdicts, the tragedy left a lasting scar on all involved, including the perpetrators now serving time.
Detective Inspector Mark Newbury, the lead investigator on the case, highlighted the devastating consequences of knife crime, urging communities and parents to address the issue proactively. Collaborative efforts between agencies and families are crucial in deterring young people from carrying knives and preventing further tragedies like Mikey’s death. The call to action resonated with a plea for open dialogue and education about the lasting impact of violence among youths.