A criminology student is accused of murdering 34-year-old Amie Gray and seriously injuring her friend, Leanne Miles, in a “savage and random” knife attack on Bournemouth’s Durley Chine Beach on May 24.

The defendant, 20-year-old Nasen Saadi from Croydon, allegedly conducted extensive research into murder methods, including asking university lecturers about self-defense justifications and forensic evidence. Prosecutors at Winchester Crown Court revealed Saadi’s questions prompted one lecturer to jokingly ask if he was “planning a murder.”

Prosecutor Sarah Jones KC stated Saadi planned the attack, researching Bournemouth beach, weapons, and hotels with limited surveillance. He booked accommodations in the area, conducted nighttime reconnaissance walks, and watched a film involving stabbings before the incident.

Gray and Miles were warming themselves by a fire on the beach when Saadi allegedly approached with a knife. Prosecutors described how he “stealthily” moved toward the women and attacked them, chasing them as they attempted to flee. Gray was fatally stabbed, and Miles sustained serious injuries.

Saadi reportedly discarded his weapon, changed clothes, and evaded capture before being arrested. Evidence of his searches, including inquiries about deadly knives and crimes in unfamiliar towns, was presented in court.

Saadi has denied charges of murder and attempted murder. He has pleaded guilty to failing to provide his phone’s passcode. The trial is ongoing.