Four Young Men Convicted of Murder in Brutal Harold Wood Attack
Knife Murder Shocks South London Community
Four young men were found guilty of murder at the Old Bailey on Friday, 1 April, following a deadly stabbing outside a Harold Wood shop in May 2021. The victim, 16-year-old Daniel Laskos, died after being attacked by an armed gang.
The Guilty: Names and Sentencing Date
- A 16-year-old boy was convicted of murder.
- Joshua Kerr, 19, of Birchanger Road, South Norwood.
- Callum Hands, 20, of Vincent Road, Dagenham.
- Rakeem Green-Matthews, 19, of Gulderose Road, Romford.
All four are remanded in custody. Their sentencing is scheduled for Thursday, 7 April, at the same court.
Chilling CCTV Captures Attack
The court heard how officers rushed to Church Road at 6.41pm on Friday, 7 May 2021, after reports of a fight involving armed groups. Despite first aid from members of the public and emergency services, including London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance, Daniel succumbed to a severe neck wound at the scene.
Detective Chief Inspector Dave Whellams, leading the murder probe, said:
“CCTV clearly showed Daniel and his friend standing on the pavement when the suspects approached, brandishing knives and a baton. Daniel and his friend tried to flee but were caught and stabbed in a brutal, targeted attack.”
Call for Community to Help Stop Violence
DCI Whellams added:
“We still don’t know the motive behind this savage murder. What is clear is a family’s life has been shattered forever. These four young men have also lost their futures.” “Every day, we see how quickly minor disputes spiral into deadly violence. It is crucial that communities, educators, and police join forces to end this tragic loss of young lives.” “If you know someone carrying weapons or involved in violent crime, please speak up. Your tip could save a life.”
