Police bodycam footage captured the arrest of a man who fatally stabbed his romantic rival in a domestic dispute. Michael James, 45, attacked Bradley Hollis, 35, with a kitchen knife at their shared residence in March 2025.
The altercation stemmed from James’ jealousy over his ex-girlfriend Zara Tolley’s new relationship with Hollis. During the confrontation, which took place while James’ children were asleep upstairs, he inflicted fatal injuries on Hollis. James was recently sentenced to 14 years in prison for manslaughter and possessing a bladed weapon in public. He also pleaded guilty to assaulting Tolley prior to the fatal incident.
During sentencing, Judge Graham Reeds KC emphasized the tragic consequences of James’ actions, stating that Hollis’ death had left a permanent void in the lives of his loved ones. The court learned that James and Tolley lived together in Sheffield with their children, and despite their past plans to marry, they separated in the previous year.
The court proceedings revealed a history of volatile relationships involving Tolley, James, and Hollis. Tensions escalated, leading to restrictions on Hollis’ visits to the family home. Messages exchanged between James and Tolley prior to the incident indicated his threatening behavior towards both Tolley and Hollis.
On the night of the fatal attack, James confronted Tolley and Hollis, resulting in a physical altercation. Witnesses described how James resorted to using a kitchen knife during the fight, ultimately causing Hollis’ death. The judge concluded that James had carried the knife with the intent to harm Hollis.
Following the incident, James was apprehended by law enforcement officers in a shed during the night. In addition to the prison sentence, a restraining order was issued to prevent James from contacting Tolley directly. Support services for victims of domestic abuse were also highlighted for those in need of assistance.
