Man Found Guilty After Pushing Woman Off Fourth Floor Balcony in Shocking Attack
A 19-year-old man has been found guilty of grievous bodily harm with intent after violently pushing an 18-year-old woman off a fourth floor balcony at a London flat party.
Night of Chaos at Empire Square Flat
Yusef Ali, from Lambeth, was convicted at Croydon Crown Court on Tuesday, 4 February, of section 18 grievous bodily harm, affray, and possession of an offensive weapon. He was cleared of attempted murder but faces sentencing on 5 March.
The court heard the terrifying events unfolded at an Empire Square flat on Long Lane, SE1. On 3 August 2019, Ali and a friend hired the fourth floor flat for an overnight party. The victim arrived with friends around 3am.
Attack Sparks After Party Turns Violent
Ali, who did not know the victim, immediately showed unwanted attention, grabbing her and pulling her hair. When she ignored him, he turned aggressive. Later, another group of boys arrived, sparking a scuffle.
Ali armed himself with a kitchen knife. Despite suffering a minor cut to his lip and head, he went on a stabbing/" title="Stabbing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">stabbing rampage, attacking at least two men as others fled. Both victims needed hospital treatment but have since recovered.
Woman Pushed Over Balcony and Seriously Injured
The victim escaped the flat and attempted to call for the lift but Ali caught up. She ran to the balcony screaming for help. In a furious rage, Ali charged and shoved her over the fourth floor ledge.
She crashed onto the hard floor below, suffering severe injuries including fractured neck and lower back. She spent weeks in hospital and remains unable to return to work or college.
Police Praise Witnesses in Bringing Ali to Justice
Ali tried to flee but was arrested on scene. Police found a knife at the flat matching a handle found on him at arrest.
“Ali violently pushed an innocent 18-year-old woman off a fourth floor internal balcony in a fit of rage which had already seen him stab two men,” said Detective Constable Tom Waller of the Met’s Central South CID.
“It was only by sheer luck she wasn’t killed. This incident has had a huge impact on her life.”
“Ali showed no regard for who he injured and terrorised everyone at the party. Thanks to brave witnesses and thorough police work, he’s now facing serious jail time.”
