Man Found Guilty of Brutal 2019 Clapham Stabbing Murder
Zion Chiata Convicted of Murdering Gavin Garraway
Zion Chiata, 20, from Patmore Estate, SW8, was found guilty of murdering 40-year-old Gavin Garraway in a retrial at the Old Bailey on Monday, 8 June. Gavin was fatally stabbed in the attack in March 2019.
Chiata had originally faced charges following the first trial in October 2019, when he was found guilty only of possessing an offensive weapon. He had pleaded guilty to manslaughter, but his defence rejected the plea, leading to this retrial.
Co-Defendant Also Convicted of Manslaughter
Tishaun Panton, 21, of Cottage Grove, SW9, was convicted of manslaughter in the original trial. His sentencing was delayed, pending the outcome of Chiata’s new trial. Both men will now be sentenced together on a date yet to be announced.
Shocking CCTV Footage Captures Fatal Attack
The assault happened at 2.36pm on 29 March 2019 in Clapham Common. Gavin was driving with his brother when Chiata and Panton, on foot, began chasing his car along Clapham Park Road.
Gavin tried to escape but crashed into a traffic light. Chiata then pulled a large knife and stabbed Gavin three times through the open window. Meanwhile, Panton attacked Gavin and the car with a crutch.
The violence lasted under ten seconds. Chiata fled immediately, while Panton continued his assault for a further five seconds. Gavin’s brother fought back with his own crutch.
Police Praise Jury and Warn Against Knife Crime
Detective Inspector Jamie Stevenson said: “This appalling attack was caught on CCTV and shows the consequences of carrying a knife. I am pleased the jury discounted Chiata’s defence that he simply ‘lost control’ and convicted him of murder.”
“I hope today’s outcome gives some form of closure to Gavin’s family who have had to endure both his loss and the nightmare of two trials.”
“I urge anyone planning on taking a knife onto the streets of London to look at this case as an example of the very real possible consequences of that decision.”
Aftermath and Investigation
Emergency services were called minutes after the attack. Police and off-duty nurses administered first aid, but despite paramedic efforts, Gavin was pronounced dead at 3.28pm. A post-mortem confirmed death was due to a stab wound to the abdomen.
CCTV footage and witness statements formed key evidence. Chiata was arrested on 2 April 2019 after forensic links to the scene. Panton was arrested 10 days later, identified through phone records. Both suspects were charged with murder and held in custody until the first trial.
