UPDATE: A British mother is mourning the tragic loss of her 13-year-old son, Alfie Hallett, who was fatally stabbed by her ex-partner, Goncalo Carvalho, in a horrifying incident in Casais, Portugal, on December 27, 2025. The attack, which has sparked outrage and grief, took place in their home, leaving the community reeling.
In an emotional tribute, Alfie’s mother, Rachel Reeves, expressed her overwhelming sorrow, stating, “I wish I could have been taken too.” She described her heartache, saying it now “hurts to breathe” after losing her son to such a senseless act of violence.
Authorities report that Carvalho, 43, first assaulted Reeves before turning the knife on Alfie. After the attack, he barricaded himself inside the apartment and ignited a gas explosion, which not only claimed his life but also injured a police officer who responded to the scene.
Police confirmed that both victims had sustained multiple stab wounds. Alfie was declared dead at the scene shortly after emergency services arrived, while Carvalho’s death was also confirmed due to the explosion.
Emergency services responded urgently after Reeves managed to escape and alert neighbors. Witnesses described her as “very scared” and severely injured when she sought help. A neighbor, Jaime Lopes, recounted the scene, saying, “She had a lot of blood on her hands and plastic ties around them.”
Alfie Hallett, described as a “lovely, gentle boy with a heart of gold” by his grandmother, Linda Hallett, is believed to have died trying to protect his mother during the attack. Tributes have poured in for the young boy, with his basketball coach referring to him as a “cherished member of the sports family.”
Officials revealed that Carvalho had a troubling past, having previously served nearly 15 years in prison for aggravated homicide. Reports indicate that the family had faced domestic violence issues, with authorities receiving complaints in both 2022 and 2023. Despite these warnings, Reeves had officially separated from Carvalho before the tragic incident.
The school community is also in mourning, with the Nuno de Santa Maria School Group expressing deep condolences. A spokesperson stated, “His smile and memory will remain alive in our hearts.”
The Polícia Judiciaria has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, emphasizing the urgency to understand this domestic violence situation. Local residents report having heard arguments at the residence, raising concerns about Carvalho’s behavior leading up to the tragedy.
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, the family and friends of Alfie are left to cope with the aftermath of a tragedy that has shocked many. The investigation continues, and authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.
This tragic event underscores the urgent need to address domestic violence and provide support for those in vulnerable situations. As memorials for Alfie begin to emerge, the hope is that his story will bring awareness and change to prevent further tragedies.
