Man Found Guilty of Fatal Knife Attack in Gloucester
A man has been convicted of murdering 55-year-old Kidane Gebrehiwot, who was stabbed to death in Gloucester last year. The jury at Gloucester Crown Court reached the verdict on August 29, 2024, after hearing the grim details of the case.
Samwen Muiruri Guilty of Murder and Knife Possession
Samwen Muiruri, 32, from Trier Way, Gloucester, was found guilty of murder and possession of a knife in public. The jury took less than five hours to decide that Muiruri was behind the fatal stabbing on Arthur Street around 1 AM on Sunday, August 6, 2023.
Chilling CCTV and Evidence Seal Conviction
During the trial, CCTV footage showed Muiruri and Mr. Gebrehiwot together on several Gloucester streets. The two men, who knew each other, crossed paths by chance that night. An argument broke out on Eastgate Street, after which Mr. Gebrehiwot walked away.
Instead of cooling down, Muiruri went home, grabbed a knife, and returned to confront Mr. Gebrehiwot outside his house. He stabbed him once in the chest, causing a fatal wound. Witnesses recall Muiruri, donning a red and white Arsenal jacket, saying, “I am done with you now” before leaving the scene.
Blood Evidence and Arrest Lead to Trial
Mr. Gebrehiwot collapsed and died despite efforts from passers-by and emergency crews. The knife blade snapped off during the attack; police later found the handle with Muiruri’s DNA at his home.
Muiruri was arrested the next day. Officers seized a jacket and trainers matching those in the CCTV footage, both stained with Mr. Gebrehiwot’s blood. Despite his denial throughout the trial, the evidence proved overwhelming.
Police: ‘A Cowardly, Premeditated Attack’
Detective Inspector Adam Stacey said: “It’s been over a year since Kidane was cruelly killed. He was well-loved and known as ‘Uncle’ in the community. Muiruri is a dangerous individual with a history of violence. This premeditated attack has robbed Kidane’s family of their loved one.”
DI Stacey welcomed the jury’s decision and hoped it would bring some peace to the victim’s family and friends.
Sentencing Due Tomorrow
Samwen Muiruri remains in custody and is set to be sentenced at Gloucester Crown Court on August 30, 2024.
