In a tragic turn of events, a Metropolitan Police investigation has culminated in the conviction of a teenager for the murder of 17-year-old Victor Lee from North Acton. Described by his family as shy and introspective, Victor was tragically exploited and met his untimely death near the Grand Union Canal in Scrubs Lane, W10.
On the evening of June 25, 2023, at approximately 17:30, Victor suffered a fatal stabbing and was subsequently pushed into the canal. Despite the swift rescue efforts by locals and emergency treatment by police and ambulance services, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Elijah Gookol-Mely, aged 18, of Australia Road, W12, has been found guilty by a majority verdict for the murder and robbery of Victor Lee. The verdict was delivered on Monday, June 17, following a trial at the Old Bailey. Gookol-Mely’s sentencing is scheduled for Friday, July 19.
The investigation revealed that robbery was the motive behind this heinous act. Gookol-Mely had stolen Victor’s bicycle and rucksack, which is believed to have contained several knives. The Met’s thorough investigation involved extensive analysis of mobile phone data, CCTV footage, witness accounts, and forensic evidence. A knife with Victor’s blood and Gookol-Mely’s DNA was discovered at the latter’s residence.
Victor had reportedly developed an interest in buying and selling weapons online for profit, unaware of the potential harm these weapons could inflict in the wrong hands.
Two other teenagers, aged 14 and 15 at the time of Victor’s murder, were acquitted of all charges.
The Met’s Specialist Crime Command detectives led a swift homicide investigation that saw Gookol-Mely and two other teenagers arrested on June 30, 2023.
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