Alphonse Rudakubana, the father of Southport killer Axel Rudakubana, revealed in an inquiry that his son had issued a chilling threat to kill him if he ever kicked him out of their family home. Axel’s menacing words, expressing his intent to harm his father, left Alphonse frightened and concerned about his son’s behavior leading up to the tragic incident where Axel attacked a group of young girls during a dance class.
Alphonse, in a written statement to the inquiry, expressed deep regret for not exerting enough parental control over Axel, acknowledging the catastrophic outcomes of his son’s violent actions. He disclosed that he had fears of authorities intervening due to Axel’s escalating violent tendencies, which were further exacerbated by incidents like pouring oil on his father’s head and making explicit threats.
The father recounted how Axel’s behavior deteriorated after being expelled from Range High School for carrying a knife, transforming from a well-presented boy to a traumatized individual. Alphonse also shared his emotional response to his eldest son’s testimony about Axel’s violent behavior at home, highlighting multiple violent incidents that occurred, some requiring police intervention.
During the inquiry, Alphonse admitted to not being aware of the disturbing content Axel accessed online, including violent and demeaning material. He explained his reluctance to impose internet restrictions, citing concerns about managing Axel’s destructive tendencies effectively. Alphonse faced criticism for undermining efforts by authorities and schools to address Axel’s behavior, emphasizing his loss of control over his son’s actions.
Axel Rudakubana, now serving a life sentence for the brutal murder of three young girls, carried out his heinous act in July last year. Alphonse expressed remorse for his failure to challenge Axel’s behavior, acknowledging his role in allowing his son access to dangerous weapons and inappropriate online content. As the inquiry continues, Alphonse will provide further testimony before Axel’s mother, Laetitia, takes the stand.