Four men have been sentenced to a combined 67 years in prison after a Metropolitan Police investigation into the tragic death of 22-year-old Lavaun Witter in Croydon. The violent attack, which occurred on February 5, 2021, has left the local community shaken and Lavaun’s family devastated.
The Fatal Attack
Police were called to Wisbeach Road around 8:08 pm after a member of the public discovered Lavaun collapsed and gravely injured on the street. Despite the efforts of paramedics, Lavaun was pronounced dead at the scene, having sustained a fatal stab wound to his leg.
A 16-year-old boy was also stabbed during the same incident but survived the attack.
The Investigation: A Targeted and Violent Break-In
Detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime South Unit launched an extensive investigation, revealing that the attack stemmed from a violent break-in at Lavaun’s flat. Four men, armed with long knives and swords, including a Samurai sword, forced their way into the property, demanding drugs they believed were inside.
During the attack, the intruders slashed through an internal door before stabbing both Lavaun and the 16-year-old. Lavaun attempted to flee but collapsed a short distance from his home, succumbing to his injuries.
Swift Arrests and Critical Evidence
CCTV footage and forensic evidence quickly led police to identify the suspects:
- Tyreece Riggon, 24, of Armistice Gardens, SE25
- Julian Russell, 26, of Sanfield Road, CR7
- Tyreece Wolfries-Parkin, 22
- Alex Pasley, 29, of Paxton Grove, Coulsdon
On February 18, 2021, officers raided an address linked to Riggon, leading to the arrest of both Riggon and Russell. A search of a separate address associated with Russell revealed a Louis Vuitton bag belonging to Lavaun, further implicating him in the crime. Wolfries-Parkin and Pasley were arrested in the weeks that followed.
All four men were charged with Lavaun’s murder, as well as attempted murder and attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH) in relation to the 16-year-old victim.
Court Proceedings and Verdicts
The trial at the Old Bailey began on July 17, 2023.
- Julian Russell and Tyreece Wolfries-Parkin were found guilty of murder.
- Alex Pasley was found guilty of manslaughter.
- Tyreece Riggon initially faced a mistrial but was found guilty of attempted GBH following a retrial in November 2024.
Pasley was also found guilty of attempted GBH for his role in the attack on the 16-year-old boy.
Sentencing at the Old Bailey
The four men were sentenced at the Old Bailey on February 19, 2025:
- Julian Russell received a life sentence, with a minimum term of 24 years (minus four years spent on remand).
- Tyreece Wolfries-Parkin was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 20 years (minus time on remand).
- Alex Pasley was sentenced to 17 years in prison (minus four years on remand) for manslaughter and attempted GBH.
- Tyreece Riggon received a six-year prison sentence (minus four years on remand) for attempted GBH.
Police Statement: “A Tragic Loss Fueled by Greed and Violence”
Detective Chief Inspector Mike Nolan, who led the investigation, condemned the violent nature of the crime and praised the resilience of Lavaun’s family throughout the legal process.
“These men were prepared to use extreme levels of violence and take Lavaun’s life to gain possession of drugs they believed were inside the property. Lavaun was defenceless against the four men, each armed with large knives, including a Samurai sword.”
“Lavaun’s death devastated his family and his community. I commend the bravery and strength they have shown throughout this lengthy investigation.”
The Devastating Impact on the Family and Community
Lavaun’s family expressed their heartbreak over the senseless loss of their loved one. Community members in Croydon have also mourned the tragedy, holding vigils and demanding action to tackle knife crime and gang-related violence in the area.
A Stark Reminder of Knife Crime in London
This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by London communities plagued by knife crime and gang-related violence. The Metropolitan Police continue to encourage the public to come forward with any information regarding violent crime in their neighborhoods.
If you have any information regarding violent crime or weapons in your area, you can contact the police by calling 101, or report anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
For more updates on crime and safety in London, follow The Sentinel Current for ongoing coverage.
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