BBC TV crime show victim dies aged 24 - six years after axe attack

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The Detectives is available in full on BBC iPlayer (Image: GMP)
The Detectives is available in full on BBC iPlayer (Image: GMP)

A brave 17-year-old tree surgeon, Cameron Brooksbank, was seriously injured after trying to stop a brutal gang axe attack.

His family have paid tribute to the "special" young man whose story is featured in a new BBC crime documentary, The Detectives. Cameron was horrifically injured when he intervened in a road rage incident, attempting to restore peace.

The Detectives, which follows Greater Manchester Police's dedicated organised crime unit, has been airing on BBC Two and is available in full on BBC iPlayer. The series focuses on DS Martin Soutter's efforts to dismantle the Adam gang, based in Rochdale's Newbold Estate. The first episode delves into the horrifying axe attack that took place on October 17, 2017.

Cameron tragically died aged 24, earlier this year.

BBC TV crime show victim dies aged 24 - six years after axe attack eiqrkixiqruinvCameron was injured trying to stop a brutal gang axe attack (GMP)
BBC TV crime show victim dies aged 24 - six years after axe attackHis family paid tribute to the 'special young man' (GMP)

Cameron, who was working nearby, tried to maintain order during what started as a simple road rage incident. He was hit by an axe in the armpit and wrist while trying to protect his head from another strike. Despite having his hand partially reattached and undergoing five surgeries over two years, he only regained 60 per cent use of his arm.

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In the first episode of the documentary, a tearful and scared Cameron is seen recounting the night's events to the police. The second episode features the collapse of a trial, while the third episode, aired on Wednesday, reveals more about Cameron's life and background. His attacker was Mohammed Awais Sajid, known as 'Skinny', from Kings Road, Rochdale.

'Skinny' was sentenced to 18 years in prison after being found guilty of section 18 wounding. He had been called to the scene by Habibur Rahman, who received a four-and-a-half-year sentence. Rahman's brother, Zillur Rahman, was sentenced to three years for conspiracy to commit violent disorder after admitting to making calls to summon the gang. Arsan Ali, one of those called to the scene, was sentenced to four years after being found guilty of conspiracy to commit violent disorder.

Sadly, viewers were informed in Wednesday's episode that Cameron had tragically passed away this year, with no cause of death provided. After the show, his family released a statement through GMP, paying tribute to Cameron and acknowledging the bravery of the officers who worked on his case and regularly risk their lives.

"This has been the most terrible time for our family, but we are just one, of many, that are being supported by GMP, who are constantly being destroyed by these cruel, merciless drug gangs" they said.

"Everyone can see first-hand how these members proactively target children into drug misuse and debt to become modern-day slaves. Also, the bravery of the officers who put their lives on the line must never be taken for granted; they have been so caring and comforting."

"Martin, Mark and their team have been wonderful, so we want to thank all concerned for everything they have done for our family and the wider borough. We thank them for their tenderness with Cameron who was only 17 at the time of the attack and the subsequent friendships that followed."

"People in dependency need medical and social support, but if you are a recreational misuser, please try to reflect and understand not only the dangers you put yourselves in, but also the dangers for so many others in the supply chain."

"We'd also like to thank the public for all the many kind words and praise for our special son and grandson, Cameron whose passing has created such a huge and painful void in our lives."

"As you can see in the episodes, we have been supported throughout by officers and programme makers Lou and Ben from Minnow Films, regardless of the successes in the courtroom they have carried us throughout this tragic and frightening journey. We will remain eternally grateful for the rest of our lives."

"Thank you so much for everything and the support you all continue to give us through this difficult period. We are extremely proud of Cameron's bravery and that his personal story will hopefully help raise some much-needed awareness around this topic."

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The Detectives is available in full on BBC iPlayer.

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]

Harry Rutter

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