Teen Convicted of Murdering Stone Mason in Churchill Terrace Knife Attack
A 15-year-old boy, just 14 at the time of the brutal attack, was convicted last Friday at the Old Bailey for the murder of James Markham. The teen was also found guilty of possessing an offensive weapon. Sentencing is set for Friday, September 16 at the same court.
Tragic Stabbing Followed Anti-Social Spat
Just after 6pm on Monday, police rushed to Churchill Terrace following reports of a disturbance. James Markham, 45, a local stonemason, was found seriously injured at the scene. Despite frantic first aid from officers, paramedics, and members of the public, he died at the scene.
Detectives revealed James had returned home shortly before the attack and confronted a group of teenagers hanging around the back of his flats. The area had become a hotspot for anti-social behaviour which James was fed up with.
Fight Turned Fatal After Knife Was Brandished
Witnesses saw a struggle unfold. James reportedly tried to scare the teens off with a drill bit. But one teenager pulled out a knife, and the two exchanged violent blows.
- James suffered three stab wounds
- One wound, piercing his lung, proved fatal
The teen and his group fled, but left behind a phone that helped identify him. He was arrested two days later on suspicion of murder and remained silent during police interviews.
Family Left Devastated as Teen Faces Long Jail Sentence
“James was a loving family man who leaves behind a partner and three children,” said Detective Inspector John Marriott from Specialist Crime. “That day, they faced a nightmare no family should endure. We hope this conviction brings them some comfort.”
The officer added the teen had a Criminal Behaviour Order banning him from the area, which he repeatedly broke. The deadly knife has never been found, suggesting he tried to hide the weapon.
“My team worked tirelessly to build a strong case using witness accounts, CCTV, and forensics. He now faces a long stretch behind bars,” Marriott concluded.
Our thoughts are with James’s family during this heartbreaking time.
