A student from Saudi Arabia has died following a stabbing in Cambridge, prompting a murder investigation that has left loved ones grieving and the local community in shock.
Mohammed Algasim, 20, was found with fatal injuries in Mill Park, a street near Cambridge railway station on the evening Friday 1 August. He had been attending a ten-week placement in the city to study English.
Police arrested 21-year-old Chas Corrigan, of Holbrook Road in Cambridge, who has been charged with murder and possession of a knife in a public place. Corrigan appeared at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on Monday and has been remanded in custody ahead of a preliminary hearing at Cambridge Crown Court on Tuesday.
In an emotional statement, Algasim’s family paid tribute to the young student: “He was a dutiful son, a loving brother and the leader of our family in spirit,” they said. “His presence brought joy wherever he was. He supported not just his father but his extended family with unwavering love.”
Friends laid bouquets and messages at the scene on Mill Road, including notes reading “may your soul be at peace.”
EF International Language Campus, where Algasim had been enrolled, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of one of its students. The school said it had arranged counselling for students and staff affected by the incident and offered its full support.
Cambridgeshire Police confirmed that Algasim was stabbed and a post-mortem examination has been scheduled for Tuesday. A 50-year-old man from Cambridge was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and remains in custody.
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Authorities believe the victim and suspect may not have known each other personally, and detectives are working to determine the circumstances leading to the fatal incident. No motive has yet been established.
The case has drawn widespread attention in Cambridge and beyond, with many expressing concern over the safety of international students in the city, long known for its academic prestige and welcoming atmosphere. Community leaders have urged calm as investigators carry out their work.
Local police have confirmed that resources will remain in place as the legal process unfolds.
Corrigan is due to appear at Cambridge Crown Court later today for a preliminary hearing.
