Friend Turned Killer: Tyreke Watson Fatally Stabbed by Mate
Momodu Samura, 23, from Haringey, was found guilty of murdering 21-year-old Tyreke Watson after a grim stabbing outside a West Green Road shop. The verdict came down at Wood Green Crown Court on 31 March, where Samura was also convicted for carrying a bladed article.
Chilling Encounter Outside Shop Leads to Fatal Stab
On 22 February 2021, Tyreke spotted Samura near his home, where Samura was trying to buy back a pawned PlayStation. Though Samura claimed they were friends, their contact had stopped months earlier. Witnesses described the pair as calm and friendly initially. The mood turned deadly when Samura pulled out a flick-knife during their chat, sparking a violent struggle.
Tyreke broke free and tried to escape, but Samura chased him down, cornering him outside a garage. There, Samura plunged the knife deep into Tyreke’s chest before fleeing home moments later.
Desperate Fight for Life Ends in Tragedy
- Tyreke staggered home but collapsed in his block’s communal area.
- Security called 999; paramedics and air ambulance rushed to help.
- Despite lifesaving efforts, Tyreke was pronounced dead at 16:46.
Samura was seen ditching his bloody clothes and CCTV footage showed him at a cash machine shortly after the attack. Phone records revealed he stopped using his phone and bought a new Oyster card, trying to cover his tracks.
Evidence Sealed Samura’s Fate
Police found a bloodied flick-knife hidden in Samura’s kitchen and a machete in his garden. Rap lyrics in his notebooks glorified knife violence. Samura was arrested at a friend’s house in Bow and refused to talk in custody.
During his trial, Samura admitted causing Tyreke’s injury but claimed self-defence. The jury rejected this and found him guilty of murder.
“Tyreke was only 21 and had his whole life ahead. He was senselessly murdered by someone who once claimed to be his friend,” said Detective Chief Inspector Linda Bradley.
“Tyreke’s baby, now one, will never know her father. Our thoughts are with the family, who have shown immense strength throughout. Samura will now face the full weight of justice. This case is a stark reminder that carrying knives only leads to tragedy.”
Samura faces sentencing at Wood Green Crown Court on 13 May.
