A man has been sentenced to 9 years in prison following a violent confrontation in Canterbury city centre that led to the death of 23-year-old Samare Gerezgihir.
Mohammed Nour Hgar, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court on Thursday, 4 December 2025, after admitting to the manslaughter of Mr Gerezgihir. The court heard that an altercation took place on the city’s busy High Street shortly before 11:30 pm on 10 October 2024. During the clash, Hgar armed himself with a knife and stabbed Mr Gerezgihir in the chest, causing “catastrophic injuries.” Despite the quick arrival of emergency services, the victim could not be saved and sadly died in the early hours of 11 October.
Detectives immediately launched an investigation, utilizing CCTV footage to establish the sequence of events. The footage revealed Hgar coming into contact with a group of men before the fatal confrontation began. It was disclosed that both Hgar and Mr Gerezgihir were known to each other, with police believing their deadly encounter stemmed from an ongoing conflict.
Following the stabbing, Hgar fled the city centre. He took a taxi to Herne Bay, having changed his clothes in an unsuccessful bid to evade police. He was located and arrested at 5 am the same morning.
Hgar was initially charged with murder on 14 October. However, during his trial, he entered a plea of manslaughter on the grounds of excessive self-defence, which was accepted by the court. Appearing for sentencing, Mohammed Nour Hgar was subsequently jailed for 9 years for the killing of Samare Gerezgihir.
Detective Inspector Colin McKeen said:
‘Today’s sentencing reflects the severity of this senseless attack and demonstrates the dire consequences of arming yourself with a knife. Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family who have shown courage and strength throughout the trial. It is my hope that this outcome brings a measure of justice and closure to everyone affected by this tragic incident.’