Timothy Smith

Timothy Smith, a 40-year-old former journalist, was murdered on 2 May 2007 in Nottingham while waiting for a bus. 

Sixteen-year-old Rickell Patterson, riding his BMX bike on the pavement, lost his temper when Smith accidentally stepped into his path.

Patterson pulled out a kitchen knife and stabbed him once in the chest in a completely unprovoked attack, then rode off, leaving Smith to bleed to death in front of witnesses.

Patterson was convicted of murder at Nottingham Crown Court in December 2007 and originally sentenced to life with a minimum of 14 years. His tariff was later reduced twice (to 12 years, then further) due to his progress in prison, making him eligible for parole around 2018.

The killing was described in court as senseless and unprovoked.

Rest in peace Timothy. You will not be forgotten.