UPDATE: A tragic incident has unfolded in Tomar, Portugal, where a 13-year-old boy, Alfie Hallett, was fatally stabbed by his mother’s ex-partner, Goncalo Carvalho, 43, just days before Christmas. The shocking attack occurred on December 27, 2025, at their home in Casais, leaving the community in mourning.
Alfie’s mother, Rachel Reeves, has expressed her devastation, stating, “I wish I could have been taken too.” In an emotional tribute, she lamented the loss of her son, saying, “He was taken from me so unfairly and cruelly by that monster.” Authorities confirmed that Carvalho first assaulted Ms. Reeves before turning the knife on Alfie, who suffered multiple stab wounds.
The incident escalated when Carvalho barricaded himself inside the home after injuring himself. Police reported that he later detonated a gas explosion, resulting in his own death and injuring an officer responding to the scene. Both Alfie and Carvalho were pronounced dead shortly after emergency services arrived.
Police investigations revealed Carvalho had a history of violence, previously serving 15 years in prison for aggravated homicide. Reports indicate that the family had been flagged for domestic violence issues in 2022 and 2023, and Ms. Reeves had sought help from authorities prior to the attack.
During the assault, neighbors reported hearing cries for help. One neighbor described seeing Ms. Reeves in a distressed state, stating, “She was very scared, very badly beaten on her face.” After managing to escape, she alerted neighbors, who called for help.
Alfie, who was born in Brighton and raised in Bognor Regis, had been living in Portugal with his mother since he was four years old. Tributes have poured in from the community, with local organizations mourning the young boy’s untimely death. His basketball coach described him as a “cherished member of the sports family,” and his school, Nuno de Santa Maria School Group, expressed their condolences, stating, “His smile and memory will remain alive in our hearts.”
The Polícia Judiciaria is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, emphasizing the seriousness of domestic violence issues. Both the community and law enforcement are urging anyone experiencing similar situations to seek help.
As this story develops, the emotional and community impact of this tragedy continues to resonate. The heartbreaking loss of Alfie Hallett has left an indelible mark on those who knew him, and the call for awareness around domestic violence has never been more urgent.
