Teen Claims Autism Caused Murder of Croydon Girl
An 18-year-old accused of fatally stabbing 15-year-old Elianne Andam in Croydon is blaming his autism in a bid to dodge murder charges.
Hassan Sentamu, who was 17 at the time, admits killing Elianne but insists it was not murder. He claims a “loss of control” triggered by his Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) led to the fatal attack. The dramatic case is unfolding now at the Old Bailey.
Deadly Row Over Teddy Bear
The stabbing happened on September 27, 2023, at Whitgift Shopping Centre. Sentamu met his ex-girlfriend and her pals, including Elianne, to swap belongings after their breakup. What started as a tense exchange escalated over a teddy bear dispute, ending in tragedy.
Prosecutor Alex Chalk KC fired back at the autism defence. He told jurors, “Many people with autism live peaceful, law-abiding lives. Autism is no excuse for the murder of Elianne Andam.”
Knife Attack Described as ‘White-Hot Anger’
The court heard Sentamu brought a kitchen knife to the meeting and stabbed Elianne multiple times after she took back a bag he’d grabbed. The victim suffered a fatal 12cm wound to her neck and died within the hour.
Chalk said the attack was fuelled by “white-hot anger” and a “short fuse,” suggesting Sentamu felt deeply disrespected during the confrontation.
Defense Argues Autism Triggered Loss of Control
Sentamu’s lawyers argue his autism seriously affected his self-control, leading to the deadly outburst. Diagnosed with ASD in 2020, he has struggled with emotional regulation, they claim.
Judge Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb told the jury to consider whether the killing was planned or a snap emotional reaction. “His case is that the killing was caused entirely by a loss of self-control,” she said.
Community Mourns Beloved Elianne
Elianne was a popular and well-loved schoolgirl. Her family and Croydon community have been left devastated. A mural in her memory now brightens Wellesley Road.
CCTV footage captured the attack and Sentamu fleeing the scene. He was arrested 90 minutes later. The jury continues to weigh up whether the autism defence holds any water as the trial presses on.
