A 23-year-old man, Sekai Miles, has been sentenced to a hospital order with restrictions after brutally killing Bernard Fowler, an 87-year-old pensioner, outside Harold Wood Station in East London. The attack, described as “shocking and appalling,” occurred on February 27, 2024.
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Gruesome Details of the Assault
The court at the Old Bailey heard how Miles attacked Mr. Fowler early in the morning as the pensioner was on his way to collect free newspapers for the community. Without any provocation, Miles gouged out Mr. Fowler’s eye, then struck him 19 times on the head with his own walking stick. The assault continued as Miles stamped on Mr. Fowler’s head eight times while he lay helpless on the ground.
Prosecutor Benjamin Aina KC told the court:
“The attack is truly shocking and appalling. After attacking Mr. Fowler, the defendant walked away, only to return and stand over the victim in a triumphant stance.”
Arrest and Mental Health Background
Police arrived swiftly, but Miles ran off holding the bloody walking stick in one hand and his trainers in the other. After a brief struggle, officers managed to arrest him.
Upon searching his rucksack, officers found religious leaflets and a Bible with highlighted passages about sight being lost and restored. One of the leaflets read:
“Are you saved? If you died today: Heaven or Hell?”
It was revealed in court that Miles had a long history of mental health issues, including paranoid schizophrenia. He had previously taken synthetic cannabis (Spice) and had stopped taking his prescribed medication, claiming he had been “saved by God.”
Mental Health Assessment and Sentence
Judge Judy Khan KC sentenced Miles to a hospital order with restrictions, stating that ongoing treatment at Broadmoor secure psychiatric hospital was essential. The court heard that Miles would likely remain hospitalized for several years before he could be deemed fit to return to the community.
Victim Impact
In victim impact statements, Mr. Fowler’s family described him as a kind and caring man with a raw sense of humor. His son, Darrin Fowler, said:
“My father was a loving, thoughtful, and supportive figure in our lives. It does not feel real, and I cannot process that he is gone. He was my wingman and confidante.”
Mental Health Failures
Mitigating for Miles, defense lawyer Brenda Campbell KC pointed out missed opportunities by medical professionals to intervene before the attack. She highlighted that Miles had shown clear signs of mental deterioration, including delusions about religion, but had not received adequate intervention.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
The attack has sparked outrage in the local community, with many calling for better support and monitoring of individuals with severe mental health issues. One resident said:
“It’s terrifying to think someone so unstable was out on the streets without proper care.”
The Metropolitan Police expressed condolences to the family, stating that the incident was a tragic reminder of the importance of mental health support.
A Community in Mourning
The brutal killing of Bernard Fowler has left the community of Harold Wood in shock. As the investigation concluded, local residents placed flowers at the site of the attack, mourning the loss of a man remembered for his kindness and generosity.
Further updates on Miles’ mental health treatment and possible future release will be provided as they become available.
