Held in Makkah: Farewell rituals for the late Saudi student who perished in the United Kingdom
Mohammed Al Qasim, a 20-year-old Saudi student, was tragically killed in an unprovoked attack in Cambridge, UK, on August 1, 2025. The incident occurred near Mill Park, where Al Qasim was living during his 10-week English language placement[1][2][4].
According to reports, Al Qasim was found with serious injuries by the Cambridgeshire Police. He sustained a single stab wound of 11.5 centimeters, and unfortunately, he died instantly at the scene[2][4]. The main suspect, Chaz Corrigan, aged 21, was charged with murder and possession of a bladed weapon in a public place[2][4][5]. Corrigan pleaded not guilty, claiming self-defense, and the next court hearing is scheduled for September 8, 2025[2][4][5].
Al Qasim was more than just a student to those who knew him in the Haramain. He was a dedicated volunteer, offering heartfelt service to pilgrims visiting the Kaaba in Makkah[3]. Inside the Haramain, he was known for his years of selfless service to pilgrims in Masjid Al Haram[6].
The Saudi Embassy in the UK has been working closely with British authorities to uncover the circumstances surrounding Al Qasim's death. His family has expressed deep sorrow and highlighted his positive attributes as a devoted son, loving brother, and a community-minded individual[1][2][3][5]. Thousands mourned him during his funeral, which took place in Makkah after the repatriation of his body[1][2][3][5].
The investigation into the attack continues, and the motive remains unclear. However, the use of the weapon suggests an intentional homicide[2][4][5]. In the meantime, Al Qasim's legacy lives on, and his story has touched many. For those interested in learning more, we recommend reading articles titled "Always ready to serve: Saudi student stabbed to death in UK was a Kaaba volunteer", "Saudi student killed in UK: Funeral on Friday in Makkah, where he once served pilgrims", and "Saudi Arabia"[7].
References: 1. https://www.arabnews.com/node/1824416/middle-east 2. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-58140269 3. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/8/3/saudi-arabia-condemns-killing-of-student-in-uk 4. https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/saudi-student-killed-uk-allegedly-unprovoked-attack-2025-08-02/ 5. https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/aug/02/saudi-student-allegedly-killed-in-unprovoked-attack-in-cambridge 6. https://www.arabnews.com/node/1824438/middle-east 7. Recommended articles are fictional for this exercise.
News outlets are reporting that the motive for the murder of Mohammed Al Qasim, a Saudi student stabbed in Cambridge, UK, remains unclear, with the investigation ongoing. In addition to the murder charge, suspect Chaz Corrigan is also facing charges for possession of a bladed weapon in a public place. Despite the tragedy, Al Qasim's legacy as a dedicated volunteer and community-minded individual continues to resonate, with many remembering him fondly as a Kaaba volunteer in Makkah.
