Man Jailed for Life After Stabbing Victim Through the Heart with Scissors
Obsessed Killer Gets Minimum 19 Years
A 30-year-old man from Hackney has been sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty of murdering a 24-year-old with a brutal scissors attack. Ozughan Altun was handed a life sentence at Wood Green Crown Court today, Tuesday 26 January, for the 2019 killing of Michael Paul Baptista.
Altun must serve at least 19 years behind bars for the cold-blooded murder.
Deadly Obsession Turns Violent
The court heard how Altun became obsessed with Michael Baptista. The victim had briefly dated a woman who was Altun’s ex-girlfriend, sparking jealousy and rage. On December 19, 2019, after Michael visited near Altun’s shop in Walthamstow, Altun stabbed him five times in a brutal frenzy, leaving him to die on the street.
Police were called to an incident on Bromley Road, Waltham Forest, at around 5.15pm. Paramedics tried to save Michael, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Lies and Evidence Unravel Killer’s Story
Altun called police claiming he was the victim, lying to paramedics that Michael had stabbed him and stalked his family. He was arrested on suspicion of murder.
- Officers found scribbled notes and drawings of Michael in Altun’s pockets.
- CCTV showed Altun threatening Michael, then discarding the deadly scissors after stabbing him in the chest.
- Investigators discovered a video of Altun burning photos of Michael and messages revealing months of obsession.
Justice Served – Family Praised for Strength
The judge commended a group of witnesses and officers for their role in the case. Detective Sergeant Gurj Singh praised the victim’s family for their courage during the trial.
“Michael’s family has been deeply affected but have shown tremendous strength throughout. We hope they find closure through the justice system,” said DS Singh.
