A man has been sentenced to more than five years in prison after admitting to the manslaughter of a much-loved father in Shrewsbury.
Kai Sainz-Stafford, 24, stabbed 35-year-old Sam Siviter three times with a blade he had concealed in a sofa during a late-night confrontation.
The Fatal Confrontation
The incident occurred on May 1 this year after Mr Siviter discovered Sainz-Stafford at his ex-partner's home. An argument broke out between the pair, leading to the fatal attack.
The injured victim managed to escape to a property on Lambourn Drive but tragically collapsed. Despite the swift response of emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sainz-Stafford, who is of no fixed address, fled but subsequently handed himself in to police the following day.
Court Sentencing and Family Tributes
At Stafford Crown Court on Tuesday, November 11, Sainz-Stafford admitted to manslaughter. He was jailed for five years and two months.
In a separate matter, he received a consecutive 12-month sentence for unlawfully wounding another person in an incident dating back to September 2024.
Following the hearing, Mr Siviter's heartbroken family paid a moving tribute to him, describing a man with a 'zest for life'.
His mother and stepfather said: “Sam adored his sons and always wanted to be a good dad and father figure. His passion for West Bromwich Albion and carpentry will live on in family and friends.”
His father, stepmother, and friends added: “Sam was a friend to everyone. His energy was infectious and he would light up every room, greeting everyone with a hug and his famous 'up the Baggies'. There is a Sivo shaped hole in all of our hearts.”
Police Statement on Knife Crime
Detective Chief Inspector Lee Holehouse commented on the case, stating that while the sentencing would not bring Sam back, he hoped it provided some closure for the family.
He emphasised the dangers of carrying a knife, saying: “This again demonstrates the dangers of a knife and how a single moment of uncontrolled behaviour can not only end the life of another but also have a far-reaching impact on the loved ones of a victim.”
