A tragic incident occurred in Hailsham town center as 20-year-old Billy Ripley lost his life after being stabbed. The court heard testimony from Ella Doe, a friend of the victim, who was with him during the fatal attack on her 18th birthday. According to her police interview played for the jury, she was present when Mr. Ripley was fatally stabbed. A 17-year-old boy, whose identity is protected by law, is standing trial at Lewes Crown Court for the murder that took place on August 29, 2024, in Hailsham, East Sussex. The teenager denies the accusation of murder, with the prosecution suggesting that the victim and defendant were acquainted and engaged in a knife fight. Ms. Doe recounted in the recorded interview the moments leading up to the stabbing, with the defendant instructing Mr. Ripley to follow him around a corner, resulting in a confrontation. Despite efforts by the public and paramedics to save him, Mr. Ripley succumbed to his injuries after collapsing from a stab wound to the heart. The court viewed CCTV footage from local businesses capturing the movements of both individuals, showing the defendant leaving the scene on a bicycle. The trial is ongoing as more details emerge. For updates, follow BBC Sussex on social media or share your story ideas with southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk.
