CPS statement on conviction of teenagers for Peter Cairns’ murder

Two teenagers have been convicted of the murder of a man who was stabbed to death with a kitchen knife.

The teenagers, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were found guilty of killing 26-year-old Peter Cairns following a trial at Stafford Crown Court today (26 May 2022). A third teenager previously pleaded guilty to murder.

The court heard that Peter Cairns was stabbed in the heart in Telford on 11 July 2021 while he was enjoying a warm sunny day with a friend.

Lorraine Anson of the CPS said: “The life of Peter Cairns was brutally cut short in a senseless stabbing. He had no gang affiliations, and a chance meeting with these teenagers who had pre-armed themselves with weapons intending to hunt down a rival gang led to his tragic death. They had no regard for Mr Cairns’ life, or the pain they caused to his family and friends. I hope that the convictions will bring some comfort to Mr Cairns’ family and friends at this very difficult time."