Neighbour Brutally Kills Grandad Days Before Wife’s Funeral
Sable Thomas, 43, from Dalmeny Road, N7, was locked up for a minimum of eight years for the savage manslaughter of his 80-year-old neighbour and friend, Anthony Rooks. The chilling sentence was handed down at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday, 8 April.
Tragic Attack Just Before Funeral
Anthony was mourning the loss of his wife of 46 years, who had battled ill health before passing away on 14 April 2020. Her funeral was set for 7 May – but Anthony never made it. On 4 May 2020, just three days before the funeral, Thomas viciously attacked him.
The court heard Anthony suffered multiple brutal blows to his head and face. So fierce was the assault that part of his ear was bludgeoned away. Thomas later admitted manslaughter, pleading diminished responsibility due to mental health issues.
Family’s Heartbreaking Statement
“Little did we know that three days before our nan’s funeral, this horrific tragedy would rock our world and change our lives forever,” said Anthony’s granddaughter.
“Why would anyone want to hurt such a loving, funny, giving, and caring old man to that extent? Grandad’s home was our safe place – now our childhood memories feel destroyed.”
“We had no chance to say goodbye. It’s like we are already serving a life sentence. Our hearts are broken, and there will always be a hole where he should be.”
Chilling Crime Scene and Arrest
Anthony’s daughter was asleep upstairs when she heard shouting and banging from below. Investigating, she found her father badly injured outside the front door. Thomas refused to say what had happened.
Police arrived soon after and found blood splattered on walls and bedding, plus a bloody bucket and mop – used in a frantic attempt to cover up the attack. Thomas was arrested on suspicion of murder.
In custody, he bizarrely laughed maniacally and asked officers if this was “how you normally treat murderers,” later querying: “Can I ask who I murdered?”
Thomas admitted stopping his mental health medication, saying it didn’t agree with him, before being charged on 6 May 2020.
Detective’s Tribute and Final Words
“This is a heart-breaking case where a beloved grandad was killed in the most brutal way by someone suffering mental illness,” said Detective Sergeant Brian Jones.
“Anthony’s family, already grieving their mum and nan, faced the unimaginable horror of a double loss during a pandemic. Thomas robbed Anthony of a chance to say goodbye to his wife.
“I commend the family’s bravery and hope this sentence brings some closure to their pain.”
