'Lessons to learn' on Christina Edkins' killer Phillips Simelane
A mental health trust has admitted there are 'lessons are to be learned' after paranoid schizophrenic Phillip Simelane was detained indefinitely for killing Black Country schoolgirl Christina Edkins.
Simelane launched the random knife attack on the 16-year-old as she travelled to school in Halesowen on a bus – less than three months after he had been released from prison without any supervision.
The 23-year-old from Walsall was sentenced yesterday after pleading guilty to her manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility. He was detained indefinitely under the Mental Health Act.
Bosses at Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust are carrying out an investigation and admitted 'there are lessons to be learned for us' following the case.
Chris Melia, the great-uncle of Christina Edkins, tells the Express & Star about her life, finding out about her death, and his feelings towards her killer.
Christina's family have said they are keen to hear the outcome of the review, which is expected in December.
They are also supporting the Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris as he prepares to launch a campaign for tougher sentences for people caught carrying knives in the wake of Christina's death.
Mr Morris said he wanted anyone caught illegally carrying a knife to be jailed.
See also:
Christina Edkins bus killer admits manslaughter
Christina Edkins' killer threatened his own mother with knife
Routine bus ride turned to terror for tragic Christina Edkins
