A construction worker who fatally stabbed a Saudi student in what prosecutors described as an “unprovoked and senseless” attack has been jailed for life.

Chas Corrigan used a kitchen knife to stab Mohammed Yousef Algasim in the neck outside student accommodation in Cambridge in August 2025.

The court heard that Corrigan, who had never met Algasim before, had been drinking alcohol and taking drugs beforehand.

Corrigan was sentenced to life imprisonment and must serve a minimum term of 22 years and six months after being convicted of murder.

His father, Peter Corrigan, was jailed for two years after pleading guilty to assisting an offender by concealing the high-vis clothing his son wore during the attack.

During the sentencing hearing, Algasim’s father, Yousef Al Qasim, spoke of the devastating impact of his son’s death: ” “Instead of witnessing his achievements, I was confronted with the unbearable reality of receiving his lifeless body,” he said.

CCTV captured attack

Algasim travelled from Saudi Arabia to Cambridge for a 10-week English language placement.

The attack was captured on CCTV footage shown to jurors during the trial.

It showed Corrigan approaching a group of men that included Algasim before walking away. He returned moments later, exchanged further words with the group and then carried out the fatal stabbing.

Algasim ran from the scene but collapsed a short distance away as members of the public called emergency services.

Three off-duty doctors and paramedics rushed to help and desperately attempted to save his life but he later died from his injuries.

Following the trial, in a statement, the family said: “This has been a very difficult journey for our family. Losing Mohammed has left a deep void in our lives. Whilst nothing can bring him back, today’s verdict recognises the seriousness and brutality of how his life was taken.”

Detective Chief Inspector Dale Mepstead, who led the investigation from the Major Crime Unit, said: “Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of Chas’ actions. He chose to arm himself with a knife and carry it in a public place, with devastating consequences.

“Mohammed was a young man with his whole life ahead of him, and his death has had a profound impact on all who knew him. Our thoughts continue to be with his family and friends as they come to terms with this tragic loss.

Image credit: Cambridgeshire Police