Kai Archer's mum issues tribute after his killer is jailed

Kai Archer's mum has issued a tribute to her son following the sentencing of Jamie Frank Higgs, who has been jailed for eight years after being found guilty of his manslaughter.

As reported, Higgs, aged 19 and of Windsor Road, Bournemouth, stabbed Mr Archer three times during an altercation outside Bournemouth Pizza Co. in St Swithun's Road on the evening of November 16, 2019.

Mr Archer was rushed to hospital but pronounced dead a short time later.

This afternoon, Higgs was jailed for eight years, with a further three years on extended licence due to the danger he poses to the public.

A statement issued on behalf of Kai’s mum said: “My beloved Kai, my son, my baby boy and loyal brother and loving nephew, a great cousin and forever friend. Kai was taken so young and way before time. I always believed in my son and I know the best was yet to come, which is one of the hardest things to accept.

Kai Archer

“You will always be remembered for your many attributes, in particular your amazing smile and looks, your wit and cheeky charm, your energy and passion. Kai was bright and articulate and had the world at his feet.

“May my son be loved and remembered for his life and as a family we would appreciate if we could now be given some space to come to terms with our grief and the outcome of the court’s decision.”

Detective Inspector Rich Dixey, of Dorset Police's Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “This was a tragic incident resulting in the sad death of Kai Archer. Higgs armed himself with a knife on the night of the assault, which led to devastating consequences.

“Our thoughts continue to remain with Kai’s family and friends during this extremely difficult time and I hope that Higgs’ imprisonment today will assist in providing some closure for them.”