Knife-Wielding Thug Convicted of Murder After Brutal Robbery Ends in Fatal Stabbing
A man has been found guilty of murdering a 22-year-old after a robbery went terrifyingly wrong. Shackim Purnell-Taylor, from Gunyard Mews, SE18, was convicted at the Old Bailey for the stabbing death of Leo Marcus.
Robbery Turned Deadly on Tellson Avenue
On 10 July 2019, Purnell-Taylor set out from his Greenwich home, armed with a knife and intent on robbing a suspected drugs courier. He spotted 22-year-old Leo Marcus cycling to an alleyway off Tellson Avenue and followed him.
Without warning, Purnell-Taylor launched a vicious attack, stabbing Leo and grabbing his rucksack. He then made off with Leo’s bike. But Leo fought back, knocking Purnell-Taylor off the stolen bike and sparking a brutal struggle.
During the fight, Purnell-Taylor stabbed Leo six times before fleeing on foot with Leo’s phone, leaving the victim’s bag behind. Leo collapsed, crying for help, and was aided by passersby before emergency services rushed him to hospital. Sadly, Leo died that same evening.
Police Hunt Ends in Arrest
Homicide detectives analysed CCTV footage and identified Purnell-Taylor as the attacker. He was tracked to a Kennington address and arrested four days after the stabbing.
At arrest, Purnell-Taylor had a cut on his hand – he claimed it happened while cooking, but police confirmed it occurred during the violent struggle with Leo. He refused to answer questions and failed to explain his presence at the crime scene, despite overwhelming evidence linking him to the attack.
Detective’s Verdict: A Cold-Blooded Killing
Detective Sergeant Rob Tickle said: “The jury rightly rejected Purnell-Taylor’s claims of self-defence. He was a violent street robber armed with a kitchen knife, intent on using it.”
“Leo Marcus’s death was a devastating waste of a young life, and a horrific tragedy for his family who have shown immense dignity throughout this process.”
“I also want to thank the brave members of the public and emergency services who tried to save Leo’s life.”
Purnell-Taylor had previously pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of an offensive weapon. Sentencing is set for Wednesday, 15 January at the Old Bailey.
