Man jailed for life for murder of mother at Notting Hill Carnival
Shakeil Thibou stabbed Cher Maximen to death on Family Day at the carnival
Last updated 16th May 2025
A 20 year old man has jailed for life - with a minimum term of 29 years - for murdering a mum in front of her three year old daughter in west London.
Shakeil Thibou stabbed Cher Maximen during Notting Hill Carnival family day.
The 32-year-old mum was knifed in the groin after falling to the ground.
Shakeil Thibou was also convicted of attempting to cause grievous bodily to 20-year-old Adjei Isaac with intent, and having an offensive weapon.
The Old Bailey heard that a disturbance broke out at about 5.48pm between the defendants and at least two other males close to where Ms Maximen was standing with her group.
The crowd parted as Sheldon Thibou got into a physical confrontation with the males, prompting Pc Mort to step in to break it up, jurors had heard.
Sheldon Thibou was holding a stun gun as he and Shaeim hit out at the officer, the court heard.
Meanwhile, Shakeil Thibou thrust a "huge" knife repeatedly towards Mr Isaac's stomach, only missing him because the victim drew back.
Ms Maximen was knocked to the ground after Mr Isaac came into contact with her, then managed to partially get to her feet, Mr Brown said.
She appeared to lift her right leg at Shakeil Thibou who raised the knife directly towards her and deliberately stabbed her in her groin, jurors heard.
Mr Brown said: "The injuries inflicted on Ms Maximen were fatal - the defendant had killed her. It was a truly shocking attack, and regarded as such by those around it."
In his defence, Shakeil Thibou claimed he picked up the knife at the carnival and acted in self-defence against Mr Isaac.
He claimed the death of Ms Maximen was an accident.
However, the prosecution case was that the knife was brought to the scene by the defendant, and that another blade was found during a search of his room.
Emma Currie, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said:
"This is a profoundly tragic case where a young child lost her mother, on what was meant to be a family-friendly day for them both at the carnival.
"Cher was caught up in the panicked crowd caused by the actions of the Thibou brothers, who robbed her of her life and the chance to see her little girl grow up.
"The brothers' actions showed no regard for the hundreds of people around them. They were undeterred by the police presence close by, with Sheldon and Shaeim assaulting the police officers who quickly and bravely intervened.
"The jury has carefully considered all the evidence before returning guilty verdicts, which I hope will bring a sense of justice for the community. Our thoughts remain with Cher's family and friends as they deal with this unimaginable loss."
Shakeil Thibou has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 29 years.