**Murder at Notting Hill Carnival: Mother Killed Before Daughter, Attacker Jailed**
A young mother was fatally stabbed in the presence of her three-year-old daughter during the Notting Hill Carnival’s family day, an attack described by the judge as carried out in “broad daylight, in front of families and police.” Shakeil Thibou, 20, who perpetrated the killing, has now been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 29 years.
The victim, 32-year-old Cher Maximen, had taken her young daughter to the annual west London event on 25 August last year, hoping to enjoy a festive atmosphere designed for families. Instead, tragedy struck as Thibou launched a knife attack that would have devastating and long-lasting consequences on those who witnessed it and those left behind.
Presiding over proceedings at the Old Bailey, Judge Philip Katz KC remarked on the “brazen” nature of the assault. “Cher Maximen took her three-year-old daughter to a children’s day at the Notting Hill Carnival,” he said. “Rather than a day of enjoyment, that child witnessed the horror of her mother’s murder.” Judge Katz stressed that the emotional and psychological impact of Ms Maximen’s death on her family and friends could not be overstated.
According to evidence heard in court, Shakeil Thibou had attacked another individual just moments before turning his weapon on Ms Maximen. Adjei Isaac, aged 20, was reportedly backing away at the time of the initial assault, which Judge Katz described as “equally horrifying.” Thibou was also convicted of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm to Mr Isaac, as well as possessing an offensive weapon.
The chaos on the day was not limited to the actions of Shakeil Thibou alone. His two brothers, Sheldon and Shaeim, were also implicated in the violence that unfolded. Sheldon Thibou, 25, was found guilty of violent disorder and of assaulting police constable Oliver Mort, who had attempted to intervene amid mounting disorder. Their brother, Shaeim Thibou, 22, was cleared of violent disorder but convicted on count of assaulting the same police officer.
The court heard that police were completely outnumbered as violence erupted at the carnival, a community event usually associated with music, vibrancy, and cultural celebration. In an unsettling scene documented by police body-worn cameras, officers faced what was described as a terrifying and uncontrollable outbreak of aggression.
The judge noted Thibou’s apparent lack of hesitation in joining the violence. He stated, “When violence broke out, you were quick to move to join in. You were so fired up that you didn’t hesitate to use your knife.” Judge Katz emphasised that the stabbing was carried out openly, “in front of police officers,” demonstrating a concerning disregard for law enforcement presence and public safety.
In closing remarks, Judge Katz addressed the scale of trauma inflicted by the incident, especially noting the lasting scars left on Ms Maximen’s daughter. The family and wider community, he said, are left to grapple with the aftermath of a senseless act that took place during what should have been a day of communal joy.
The Notting Hill Carnival, one of London’s most prominent cultural events, has long been regarded as a celebration of diversity and togetherness. This tragedy, however, serves as a solemn reminder of the unpredictable nature of such large gatherings, and the need for continued vigilance in safeguarding attendees—particularly children and families—at public festivals.
As the legal process concludes for those involved in Ms Maximen’s murder, questions remain about safety at public events and how best to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The sentencing brings some closure for the bereaved but cannot erase the pain experienced nor the traumatic memories now burdening a child who lost her mother in an act of shocking violence.