Tedi Fanta Hagos, 27, of Ravenhill, Swansea, launched a vicious assault in Oxford Circus, W1 on the unsuspecting Stephen Dempsey, 60, of Leigh-on-Sea.
Hagos was found guilty of murdering Stephen Dempsey on Wednesday, 1 February, at the Old Bailey.
Under the Mental Health Act, the Judge ordered that he be detained in a secure hospital indefinitely.
On Thursday, 1 July 2021, just before 20:00, police were called to reports of a man stabbed near the intersection of Oxford Circus and Regent Street in W1.
Officers were present, as were London Ambulance Service and London Air Ambulance.
Stephen was discovered with stab wounds and was taken to the hospital, where he sadly died.
Officers immediately began investigating what had occurred. They soon realised that Stephen was completely innocent and had been attacked at random while out sightseeing.
Hagos was apprehended and taken into custody at the scene.
According to CCTV footage, two men bravely intervened, striking the suspect with their skateboards in an attempt to stop him.
Sadly, despite their efforts, Stephen’s injuries were too severe.
The reason for the attack was never revealed.
My heart goes out to Stephen’s family, especially his mother, who lost him in such terrible circumstances,” said Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Grogan, senior investigating officer.
While I understand that there is little solace in the aftermath of this terrible story, I hope they can find solace in the fact that people tried to help Stephen when he needed it the most. Those two brave members of the public should know how much Stephen’s family appreciates their actions. The Judge formally recognised their actions and commended two other members of the public for their bravery.
“I’d also like to thank my team of detectives, who worked tirelessly to bring Stephen’s family justice.”
