Roger Harriott, 56, commits “brutal” slaying following son’s life sentence for teen’s murder

In a shocking and brutal act of violence, Roger Harriott, 56, fatally stabbed his sister, Sandra Harriott, 56, with a samurai sword just eight days after his teenage son was convicted of murder.

The harrowing incident unfolded outside the home Sandra shared with their elderly mother in Fartown, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. Harriott’s son, Jovani Harriott, 17, had recently been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Khayri McLean, 15.

Described as a “brutal, vicious, and merciless attack” by prosecutors at Leeds Crown Court, the murder occurred amid a toxic family dynamic exacerbated by disputes over their mother’s care and allegations of fraud.

Harrowing CCTV footage captured the horrifying moment when Harriott pursued his sister on the street, wielding the samurai sword as she attempted to flee. Despite Sandra’s desperate attempts to escape, Harriott relentlessly attacked her, striking her multiple times with the weapon until she fell to the ground. Even after she was incapacitated, he continued to inflict fatal blows.

Sandra had reportedly lived in fear of her brother since 2020, enduring physical and verbal abuse, leading her to seek legal protection through a non-molestation order. Despite her efforts to safeguard herself, Harriott breached the order and his bail conditions, culminating in the tragic and senseless loss of her life.

The court heard that Harriott harboured animosity towards his sister, exacerbated by their disagreements over their mother’s welfare and financial matters. His fascination with blades and history of aggressive behavior further underscored the danger he posed.

In a chilling confession to police following the murder, Harriott admitted his intention to kill his sister, cementing the premeditated nature of the crime. He was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 23 years.

The tragedy highlights the devastating ripple effects of violence within families and serves as a grim reminder of the profound consequences of unchecked aggression and unresolved conflict.