‘It is no victory for us’: Family speak out after two men convicted of son’s murder

The family of a 20-year-old man who was fatally stabbed in the chest have spoken out after two men were convicted of his murder and the serious injury of another relative.

Shane Canavan, 23, and his half-brother Joshua Langley, 28, both from Purley, were found guilty of the murder of Bradley Hutchins at Woolwich Crown Court yesterday.

The two men were also found guilty of wounding another 19-year-old man – who was related to Mr Hutchins. 

Canavan was found guilty of possession of a blade. Langley had previously pleaded guilty to the same offence.

Mr Hutchins’ family said: “We are obviously very happy with today’s verdict and are glad that these two men will now be off the streets where they can’t hurt anyone else.

“In reality though it is no victory to us as we have lost our son and brother. 

“Bradley was the best son a Mum could ask for – he was always happy, forever smiling and was known by so many people for his kindness, always willing to help others. He will be forever remembered as our hero.”

An investigation was started after police were called to reports of people fighting in North Walk, New Addington, at around 6pm on September 12, 2023.

Two victims who had been stabbed made their way to New Addington London Ambulance base, a short distance away.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, and the assistance of members of the London Fire Brigade, Mr Hutchins’ died a short time later from a stab wound to the chest.

At the scene of the offence in North Walk, police found a crowbar, monkey wrench, knife and a balaclava.

Police said Canavan had been involved in a fist fight with Bradley and the other victim a few days before the attack. 

Detective Inspector Matt Read said: “Canavan could not let it go and went out looking for the two victims, this time with a knife. 

“When he found himself outnumbered by the pair and some friends he called for back-up in his half-brother Langley who arrived with a knife and wearing a balaclava.”

A fight ensued in which Mr Hutchins’ and the other victim fought back with makeshift weapons. But, they were both stabbed multiple times.

Mr Hutchins’ family said: “Bradley was yet another young person killed in a senseless attack with a knife – more has to be done to address knife crime, to save lives and to prevent another family from being shattered by the devastating loss of someone they love. 

“No parent should ever have to experience the loss of a child.”

Canavan was arrested on September 16, and Langley on September 17. Both were charged on September 18, and remanded in custody.

They will be sentenced on August 6.

DI Read said: “Our thoughts first and foremost today are with Bradley’s family following the utter devastation they have suffered. 

“Not only did they lose Bradley in awful and unnecessary circumstances, but they had the additional suffering of another relative being seriously injured too. 

“He continues to be treated for his injuries to this day.”

Pictured top: From left, Shane Canavan and his half-brother Joshua Langley (Picture: The Met)