Teen Brutally Stabbed in Canning Town Murder Re-Trial Ends with 18-Year Jail Term
A teenager who claimed innocence has been slammed with 18 years behind bars after a dramatic re-trial. Shemar Dawes, 19, of no fixed abode, was found guilty again for the savage 2018 murder of 17-year-old Lord Promise Nkenda, known simply as Promise.
BMW Used as Murder Weapon in Chilling Chase
The court heard how Dawes and four other teens stole a BMW and rammed it at their victim. Promise, from Newham, tried to escape down Butchers Road but was chased by the gang. He was stabbed 15 times in the head, back, and chest by attackers wearing white latex gloves – a strong sign the brutal act was planned and deliberate.
Knife Found at Scene, DNA Seals Conviction
Police launched a murder probe after being alerted by ambulance crews on the night of February 14, 2018. Officers found Promise dead at the scene, with a post-mortem confirming fatal stab wounds to the chest.
A forensic hunt uncovered a knife and glove near a telephone junction box, both linked directly to the killers. DNA evidence and CCTV footage from the stolen BMW sealed Dawes’ fate. Despite his protests of innocence, the jury unanimously convicted him.
Life Behind Bars with No Parole for Over 16 Years
Dawes was jailed immediately, starting a life sentence with a minimum term of 18 years. Having already served 624 days, he won’t be eligible to apply for parole for another 16 years and 106 days.
This brutal murder has rocked Canning Town, highlighting a merciless attack that shocked the local community.
