A man has been convicted of killing his 74-year-old neighbour during a row over a gate in Covent Garden, following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service.
On Thursday, May 1, a jury at Southwark Crown Court found Trevor Gocan, 57, guilty of manslaughter in connection with the death of James ‘Jim’ O’Neill.
The fatal assault occurred on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at Odhams Walk, close to both men’s homes. Mr O’Neill was assaulted in broad daylight, in full view of members of the public, including children, and later died in hospital on Monday, October 21.
Details of the Attack
At around 12:00pm, emergency services were called to Odhams Walk where Mr O’Neill was found with multiple injuries.
He was transported to hospital, where it was confirmed he had a traumatic brain injury and rib injuries. Despite medical efforts, complications from these injuries ultimately led to his death.
Police arrested Gocan shortly after the incident at a nearby property where he resided.
A post-mortem examination confirmed that Mr O’Neill died due to complications arising from the assault.
Court Proceedings
In police interviews, Gocan offered no comment. During his trial, he claimed he acted in self-defence following a dispute about a gate.
However, the jury rejected his claims, unanimously convicting him of manslaughter.
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley from Specialist Crime South said:
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr O’Neill, who lost a loved one in shocking circumstances.
The jury’s verdict shows that casual, thuggish violence will not be tolerated on London’s streets.
Sentencing Date Set
Trevor Gocan has been remanded in custody ahead of his sentencing, which will take place at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
