Two brothers have been found guilty of murdering Anthony Littler, a civil servant, in north London in 1984 during a violent campaign targeting gay men. Michael Stewart, 57, and Anthony Stewart, 60, were teenagers when they attacked Mr Littler shortly after midnight on 1 May 1984 as he walked home from East Finchley Tube station.
Attack In London Alleyway
Mr Littler, 45, had been at a Society for the Preservation of Beer from the Wood meeting in Carshalton, Surrey, before he was ambushed in a narrow alley. He was struck twice on the head with a blunt weapon. He was found around 30 minutes later by passers-by, lying in a pool of blood with his belongings untouched.
Targeting Gay Men
Jurors were told the Stewart brothers and their associates made a “hobby” of attacking lone men they thought were gay. Both brothers initially denied involvement, with Anthony claiming he never used the alley. Despite appeals on Crimewatch and ITV’s Police 5, the case remained cold for decades.
Breakthrough And Confessions
A key breakthrough came in 2013 when their younger brother Daniel, who was 10 at the time of the murder, informed police following a family dispute that the brothers had confessed to “queer bashing.” Later, Michael admitted involvement to a former girlfriend and revealed the attack location.
Covert Evidence Leads To Conviction
The investigation reopened in 2022 used covert audio surveillance in the brothers’ cars and Michael’s home. Michael was recorded bragging about the killing, while Anthony rarely spoke. Both denied murder and did not give evidence. The Old Bailey jury convicted them after less than three hours of deliberation. Sentencing is due Friday by Mrs Justice Cutts.
Police Statement
Detective Chief Inspector Neil John said the brothers displayed a “clear propensity for the most sickening kind of violence.” “Anthony’s life was suddenly cut short in a brutal attack by two teenagers. They targeted him because he was alone, defenceless, and walking down a dark alley where their horrendous assault wouldn’t be witnessed.” “We know Anthony’s murder has continued to cause his family pain all these years later, and we are pleased they now know who was responsible.” He thanked those who came forward and confirmed the Met Police will continue reviewing new evidence no matter how much time passes.
