Three minors charged with murder after man dies on Isle of Sheppey

Three London youths are charged with murder after a man was found dead in Leysdown-on-Sea, Kent.

Three children charged with murder after man dies on Isle of Sheppey

Three children from London aged 14, 15 and 16 have been charged with the murder of Alexander Cashford, 49, whose body was found in Leysdown-on-Sea on the Isle of Sheppey. The arrests followed an altercation in Leysdown-on-Sea on Sunday evening. The suspects are charged with murder by joint venture and remanded in custody to appear before Medway Magistrates Court. The victims and suspects cannot be named due to their age.

A 12-year-old girl was arrested in Basildon, Essex, on Tuesday in connection with the incident and remains in custody. Kent Police say Mr Cashford was assaulted following a disturbance involving a small group near Warden Bay Road and Jetty Road at 7 pm BST on Sunday. He sustained multiple injuries to his body, a police spokesperson added. The force is continuing to appeal for witnesses, and anyone with information or CCTV or dashcam footage is urged to contact the force.

The case spotlights how the justice system handles serious crime when youths are involved. Charging minors with murder raises questions about rehabilitation and public protection, especially in a small coastal community. The police emphasis on witnesses and footage shows the value of community vigilance, but it also stakes the outcome of the case to collective memory and media attention. As the investigation unfolds, local leaders and families will weigh accountability against support services for young people at risk.

Highlights

Investigators will pursue answers while the community watches for developments.