Teen Convicted Over Brutal 2019 Harlesden Stabbing
Tjani Williams-Campbell, 18, from Neasden, Brent, was found guilty at the Old Bailey on Friday 11 December for the murder of Meshach Williams. The deadly attack happened in April 2019 when Williams-Campbell was just 16.
Fateful Night on Harlesden High Street
- Meshach Williams was walking with a friend at around 9pm on 23 April 2019.
- Two vehicles, a VW Passat and Renault Clio, rolled past in convoy before turning back.
- One occupant exited and launched a targeted stabbing attack on Meshach.
- The getaway cars waited and fled, hitting Meshach’s friend but causing non-life-threatening injuries.
- Meshach collapsed inside a bookmakers and was rushed to hospital.
- He was pronounced dead at 2:47am on 24 April due to a fatal stab wound.
Investigation and Trial Details
The Met’s Specialist Crime Command launched a full probe. One suspect vehicle was set ablaze in Gladstone Park just hours later. Early CCTV and phone evidence tied three suspects to the scene.
Two men were convicted in November 2019 and jailed; one was acquitted. Williams-Campbell and another teen were arrested later that year. Though it’s unclear who dealt the fatal blow, Williams-Campbell was found guilty under joint enterprise for being part of the attack plan.
The motive remains murky but is believed to relate to an earlier dispute involving those involved.
Family Heartbroken, Police Vow Justice
Meshach’s mother Ruth said: “Losing my son Meshach is a pain that is indescribable. Heartbroken is an understatement… My life was turned upside down on 24 April 2019, when I was told my beloved son was gone forever. This cold and brutal murder has left our whole family shattered.”
Detective Sergeant Devan Taylor commented: “The Met will continue to work tirelessly to catch offenders, remove weapons, support victims, and keep communities safe. My sincere condolences go to Meshach’s family, who showed incredible dignity throughout the trial. While nothing brings Meshach back, I hope justice offers some small comfort.”
Previous Convictions
On 31 January 2020, Dominic Calder from Hayes and Mikel Mulqueen from Harlesden were each jailed for life, serving a minimum of 20 years for Meshach’s murder.
Williams-Campbell’s sentencing is set for Friday 22 January 2021 at the Old Bailey.
