UPDATE: A devastating incident has unfolded in Casais, Portugal, where 13-year-old Alfie Hallett was tragically stabbed to death by his mother’s ex-partner, Goncalo Carvalho, 43. In a heart-wrenching statement, Alfie’s mother, Rachel Reeves, expressed her deep sorrow, stating, “I wish I could have been taken too,” following the brutal attack that has shocked the community.
Alfie’s murder occurred on December 27, 2025, after Carvalho first assaulted Reeves at their home. After the attack, Carvalho fatally wounded Alfie and subsequently barricaded himself inside, leading to a gas explosion that killed him and injured a police officer responding to the scene. Authorities were alerted to a domestic violence situation just before the incident escalated.
Reeves, 43, shared her anguish, saying, “He was taken from me so unfairly and cruelly by that monster.” She described the profound pain of losing her son, highlighting that Alfie was her “reason for living” and that her heart is “broken, shattered.” She hopes Alfie knew how deeply he was loved.
Alfie’s grandmother, Linda Hallett, characterized him as a “lovely, gentle boy with a heart of gold,” believing he died protecting his mother during the horrific attack. Neighbors reported hearing frequent arguments and expressed concerns about Carvalho’s controlling behavior, as he often slept in his car outside the family home.
Previously, Carvalho had a criminal history, serving 15 years for aggravated homicide after fatally stabbing a man 35 times as a teenager. Reports of domestic violence involving Reeves and Carvalho had been documented by police in 2022 and 2023, with Reeves having made prior complaints about her ex-partner.
Alfie was born in Brighton and raised in Bognor Regis before moving to Portugal when he was four years old. His basketball team has paid tribute, praising his performance in what would be his final game. The spokesperson noted, “He played so well that it seemed like he knew it was his last game.”
The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief, with Alfie’s school, D. Nuno Alvares Pereira School, expressing condolences and highlighting the profound loss felt within the educational community.
In a statement, the Polícia Judiciaria confirmed ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the double tragedy. They noted that both Alfie and Carvalho had multiple stab wounds, and despite initial vital signs, death was declared at the scene.
As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the aftermath of this heartbreaking event. Neighbors and friends are left mourning a young life cut short and a family torn apart by violence. Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward as they seek to clarify the details of this tragic incident.
This unfolding story underscores the critical importance of addressing domestic violence and its devastating consequences.
