Gang Jailed for Murder of Two Teenage Boys in Bristol Revenge Attack
A gang of five has been convicted of murdering two teenage boys in a brutal machete attack in Bristol, described by grieving families as the act of “animals.”
Mason Rist, 15, and Max Dixon, 16, were fatally stabbed on January 27 in the Knowle West area after being mistaken for individuals involved in a separate incident. The teenagers had no connection to the earlier attack but were chased and attacked while walking to get pizza.
Verdicts Delivered
After a six-week trial at Bristol Crown Court:
- Riley Tolliver, 18, along with a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old, was found guilty of murdering Mason and Max.
- A 15-year-old boy pleaded guilty to Mason’s murder and was found guilty of Max’s murder.
- Antony Snook, 45, who acted as the gang’s getaway driver, was also found guilty of both murders.
The juveniles cannot be named due to legal reasons.
“A Piece of Our Family Puzzle Destroyed”
Speaking outside the court, Mason’s uncle, David Knight, praised the police investigation but expressed the profound loss felt by the family.
“These animals took away a son, a brother, a nephew, and a grandchild,” he said. “Mason was a massive part of our family’s jigsaw puzzle, and now that piece has been destroyed. He was a quiet, loving boy who wouldn’t hurt a fly.”
Max’s mother, Leanne Ekland, echoed these sentiments, saying, “The last six weeks have been emotionally draining. While today’s outcome brings some justice, it doesn’t change the fact that two families go home without their boys.”
Mistaken Identity and Premeditated Revenge
The court heard that the attack was a revenge mission gone horribly wrong. Earlier in the evening, bricks had been thrown at a house in the rival Hartcliffe area, prompting the gang to seek retribution.
Snook drove Tolliver and the three teens to Knowle West in an Audi Q2, where they mistakenly identified Mason and Max as those responsible.
Armed with machetes and a baseball bat, the gang ambushed the boys. CCTV footage revealed the attack lasted only 33 seconds, during which the teenagers inflicted fatal injuries. Both victims died in the early hours of January 28.
Aftermath and Arrest
After the attack, Snook drove the gang from the scene and disposed of evidence, including burning items linked to the murders in a back garden.
Sentencing Awaited
- Snook will be sentenced on November 19.
- Tolliver and the three juveniles will be sentenced on December 16, following the preparation of reports.
All five defendants remain in custody.
Community Outrage
Detective Superintendent Gary Haskins, the senior investigating officer, said, “Max and Mason were innocent boys simply going for pizza. The families have shown immense courage throughout this trial, listening to horrific details no loved one should hear.”
Vicky Cook of the CPS added, “These verdicts are a stark reminder of the tragic consequences of carrying knives and bladed weapons. Nothing can justify the senseless loss of two innocent lives.”
The tragic murders of Mason and Max underscore the devastating impact of knife crime and mistaken identity, leaving their families and the community mourning lives lost far too soon.