Young Man Jailed for Brutal Murder of Family Roommate
Carlos Velez, 20, was sentenced to 17 years behind bars after being found guilty of murdering 26-year-old David Martinez at the Old Bailey on Friday, 26 June.
Deadly Row Over Girlfriend in East London Flat
David lived with Velez, his girlfriend, and mother in a North Birkbeck Road flat, E11. On 6 March 2019, tempers exploded when Velez demanded to know why David was in the kitchen with his girlfriend.
David’s chilling texts to his cousins warned: “Velez was all crazy… asking if I had kissed his girlfriend” and “I’m going to try to go on Friday else I’ll end up dead.” Moments later, Velez’s girlfriend witnessed Velez stabbing David repeatedly in the head and stomach.
Teen Tries to Escape But Dies of Fatal Knife Wounds
Despite the horrific injuries, David managed to flee the flat and alert passersby who called emergency services. Paramedics rushed to the scene, but David succumbed to his wounds shortly after.
Family Mourns Lost Future in Heartbreaking Court Statement
“David was an amazing man, full of promise and love for his family. He was learning English to study in Switzerland and had a bright future ahead,” said his sister, Katerine Martinez-Valencia.
She described the family’s agony, recalling desperate efforts to find David after his desperate messages before police confirmed his death.
“My mother remains inconsolable, unable to sleep or smile since that dreadful day. My father still asks what hospital David is in, breaking my heart every time.”
Katerine also condemned Velez’s lies in court, saying, “It is clear he knew exactly what he was doing. The attack shows his bitterness towards David’s kindness and family ties.”
The family was unable to attend the trial due to the pandemic, but followed proceedings online as justice was served for David’s tragic death.
