Man found guilty of murder after investigation by Counter Terrrorism Policing

A man has been found guilty of murder and attempted murder following attacks in Hartlepool in October 2023.

Ahmed Ali Alid was also found guilty at Teesside Crown Court of two further offences of Assaulting an Emergency Worker after attacking two police officers while in custody.

On Sunday 15 October, police responded to reports of a disturbance, where they found a 32 year old man with stab wounds. His injuries required hospital treatment but were not life threatening.

Searches for the suspect led to a second location, where they found a second victim with severe stab wounds to his chest and neck. Officers administer first aid, but he died at the scene.

The suspect was arrested a short distance away and detained for questioning. He indicated during questioning, that his actions were motivated by the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Counter Terrorism Policing North East assumed the lead for the investigation, with the support of Cleveland Police. Alid was charged with Murder, Contrary to Common Law and Attempted Murder, Contrary to Section 1(1) of the Criminal Attempts Act 1981 on 16 October and on October 27 was charged with two additional offences of assault.

He has been remanded to be sentenced on 17 May.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East said: “The horrific attacks in Hartlepool were unprovoked and deeply disturbing. Alid seriously injured one man and deliberately took the life of another.

“Terence Carney’s family and friends have been left devastated by the tragic outcome of Alid’s actions and have lost a much-loved husband, father, and grandfather. Our deepest sympathies go out to them.

“I have no doubt that the swift response of the attending officers prevented further harm or loss of life that morning. We’re grateful for their bravery in the face of a dangerous and unpredictable suspect. I’d also like to thank the people of Hartlepool for their calm and measured response to that day’s events and for the resilience they showed in the weeks that followed.”

Deputy Chief Constable of Cleveland Police, Victoria Fuller, said: “The shocking events in Hartlepool on 15 October 2023, which led to the tragic death of 70-year-old Terence Carney, shook the local community to its core.

“Alid’s actions not only left a family devastated, but also caused significant fear and distress amongst residents in Hartlepool and beyond.

“Following the initial response which saw swift and brave actions from Cleveland Police Officers, the force has supported Counter Terrorism Policing North East throughout their investigation.

“Local Neighbourhood Policing Teams in Hartlepool will be undertaking high visibility patrols to provide reassurance to the local community, and officers will be a point of contact should anyone have any concerns.”