Leon Murray Found Guilty of Brutal Stabbing Murder
Leon Murray, a man with no fixed address, was found guilty on Friday, 31 May at Wood Green Crown Court. He fatally stabbed his partner Keisha Christodoulou just one day after she told him she wanted to end their relationship.
Detective Slams ‘Senseless and Selfish’ Killer
Detective Inspector Adam Clifton, who led the investigation, said: “Murray’s horrific response to Keisha deciding to end their relationship is as senseless as it is selfish. Throughout the investigation and trial, Murray has tried to portray himself as a victim. The jury rejected this completely.”
“The savage violence used in the attack is utterly shocking. Our thoughts remain with Keisha’s family and friends, especially her three young children whose lives will never be the same.”
“Tackling violence against women is one of our top priorities. We will keep working to bring dangerous offenders like Murray to justice. Anyone suffering domestic abuse should seek support immediately.”
How the Murder Unfolded
- On 31 October 2022, Keisha ended their relationship.
- The very next day, Murray went to their flat in Tanner’s Hill, Deptford and stabbed her 17 times.
- He changed his clothes and calmly went to pick up their six-year-old daughter from school.
- Upon arrival, Murray told staff, “It is done” and that he had “ended” Keisha.
- Staff immediately called 999, as did Murray, confessing to police what he had done.
- Officers found Keisha, 32, dead on the living room floor. A post-mortem ruled cause of death as sharp force trauma to the chest.
Jury Rejects Diminished Responsibility Claim
Murray admitted killing Keisha, but his defence argued diminished responsibility. The jury sided with the prosecution, ruling Murray had full control and knew exactly what he was doing.
He will be sentenced at Wood Green Crown Court on Monday, 3 June.
