Teen Killers Jailed for Brutal Stab Murder over Online Girl Feud
Ali Tasyurdu, 18, from Islington, and a 16-year-old boy have been found guilty of the savage murder of 19-year-old Nikolay Petrov Vandev. Both also convicted for grievous bodily harm against a second 19-year-old.
Knife Fight Over Social Media Spat Turns Deadly
The shocking killing, ruled at Wood Green Crown Court, was sparked by a bitter online feud about a girl. Detective Sergeant Brett Hagen said the violent attack “stems from a pointless quarrel that exploded into extreme violence.”
“A lockdown fight online has cost Nikolay his life, left another man stabbed, and ruined two young lives,” Hagen added. The pair had already admitted to carrying a knife on June 7, 2021.
Peace-Maker Fatally Stabbed in Tottenham
The feud began with threats exchanged on March 7, 2021, escalating the next day as schools reopened. Nikolay’s friend was heading to college near Tottenham Station when Tasyurdu and his accomplice attacked, punching and stabbing him in the leg. Nikolay tried to intervene and bring peace but was stabbed in the aorta, dying at the scene despite desperate first aid attempts.
- Police recovered two identical knives; one tested positive for Tasyurdu’s DNA, the other with blood from the victim’s friend.
- After the attack, suspects fled to change clothes and disposed of the weapon in Tottenham Marshes.
- An emotional post-mortem confirmed the fatal wound was a stab to the aorta.
Teen Suspects Caught After Attempt to Flee
Tasyurdu confessed the murder to a family member and was arrested at home on March 8. He was planning to flee to Turkey to avoid capture. His 16-year-old accomplice handed himself in the following day and was immediately charged.
“Nikolay had never been in trouble and was simply trying to make peace,” said Detective Sergeant Hagen.
“I hope other young men carrying knives see how this tragedy destroyed lives.”
“My thoughts are with Nikolay’s family, who have shown immense dignity throughout this harrowing trial.”
Sentencing Date Set
The pair will be sentenced on Friday, 1 April. Their actions have left a tight-knit community mourning and raise urgent questions about youth violence linked to online spats.
