A criminology student meticulously researched murder techniques before launching a "savage and random" knife attack on Bournemouth’s Durley Chine Beach, killing one woman and seriously injuring another, Winchester Crown Court has heard.
Nasen Saadi, 20, from Croydon, south London, is on trial for the murder of 34-year-old fitness trainer Amie Gray and the attempted murder of her friend Leanne Miles on May 24. Prosecutor Sarah Jones KC described the attack as the culmination of a sinister plan Saadi allegedly prepared through meticulous online research and unsettling inquiries during his university studies.
Meticulous Planning
Ms. Jones told the court that while studying criminology at Greenwich University, Saadi posed unusual questions to lecturers about murder defenses and forensic evidence. One lecturer, puzzled by his curiosity, even asked, “You’re not planning a murder, are you?”—a question to which Saadi reportedly gave no reply.
The prosecution detailed how Saadi researched knives, comparing their lethality, and delved into cases like the murder of Brianna Ghey. He also investigated logistical details about Bournemouth beach, including visitor patterns and hotels that accepted cash without requiring identification or having CCTV cameras.
In the days leading up to the attack, Saadi booked into two accommodations in Bournemouth—a Travelodge and the Silver How Guest House—and conducted nightly reconnaissance walks along the promenade to the scene of the eventual crime.
The Attack
On the night of May 24, Saadi reportedly walked along the promenade under a full moon before approaching Ms. Gray and Ms. Miles, who were sitting by a fire on the sand. Prosecutors allege he moved “slowly, stealthily, and quietly” before launching his attack with a knife, stabbing both women multiple times.
Ms. Gray succumbed to her injuries, while Ms. Miles survived despite serious wounds. The prosecution argued that Saadi left his victims on the beach, discarding his weapon, clothes, and shoes to evade detection.
Chilling Inspiration
The court heard that Saadi attended a screening of The Strangers – Chapter 1 two nights before the murder. The film features a violent stabbing scene, which the prosecution suggested may have influenced or emboldened his actions.
Defence Denial
Saadi denies the charges of murder and attempted murder, though he has pleaded guilty to refusing to provide his mobile phone passcode to police. The trial continues, with prosecutors painting a picture of premeditated violence fueled by macabre research and calculated preparation.
This chilling case has left the Bournemouth community in shock, highlighting the dangers of unchecked violent fantasies manifesting into real-world harm.