News / Crime

Boy jailed for murdering his sister

By Martin Booth  Monday Mar 10, 2025

A 17-year-old boy has been jailed for life with a minimum term of ten years after fatally stabbing his sister, Luka Bennett-Smith.

Mali Bennett-Smith pleaded guilty to murder and was sentenced on Monday at Bristol Crown Court, where a judge lifted reporting restrictions and allowed the teenager to be named.

Mali Bennett-Smith pleaded guilty to murdering his sister – photo: Avon & Somerset Police

The tragic incident happened in a home on Cromwell Road in St Andrew’s on October 20 2024 where Luka, 19, died of multiple stab wounds.

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Mali was arrested by at the scene and was charged with his sister’s murder two days later.

Avon & Somerset Police detective inspector Nadine Partridge said: “Our thoughts remain fully with Luka’s family at this difficult time.

“They continue to be updated and supported by specially trained family liaison officers.

“They have asked for privacy while they continue to process the tragic events of that night and I would urge everyone to please respect their wishes.”

Main photo: Karen Johnson

Read next: Boy arrested on suspicion of murder after woman dies in St Andrew’s

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