Teen Stabbed to Death in Brutal Pub Attack
Liam Taylor, 19, was stabbed to death after a savage attack outside The Rose and Crown pub in Writtle on the night of January 31 last year. Liam and a 19-year-old friend were enjoying a drink with pals when a black Subaru screeched up and a gang of men jumped out.
The men launched a targeted assault with weapons, leaving the pair bleeding heavily. Liam managed to stagger inside to the bar but tragically died at the scene from multiple stab wounds. His friend was rushed to hospital, needing surgery on a stab wound to his leg.
Stolen Car Used for Attack Found Burnt Out
The getaway car, a black Subaru stolen from Hainault, was later found torched in Bicknacre. Today, Chelmsford Crown Court convicted Ryan Filby, 21, and Daniel Daden, 19, for Liam’s murder and the attack on his friend.
The court heard the assault was revenge for an earlier incident where Filby was beaten with a pole outside his home, but neither Liam nor his friend were involved in that attack.
Convictions and Family Heartbreak
Filby and Daden were found guilty of murder and wounding with intent on May 5, but acquitted of other charges. A third man, Connor Smith, 19, was cleared of all charges. Sentencing is expected in June.
“Liam was more than just a son — he was his mother’s soulmate and best friend,” said Liam’s grandmother, Julie Taylor. “Her world collapsed the night they took his life. He was loving, kind, and always smiling. Everyone loved his infectious smile.”
“This year Liam would have been 21. We planned to celebrate with the whole family in Tunisia. Instead, we’re haunted by the violence that stole his life and the birthdays and holidays we’ll miss.”
Police Call to Action
Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Jennings said: “Liam and his friend had no chance to defend themselves in this brutal act of retribution for something they weren’t involved in.”
“This tragedy shows the deadly consequences of carrying weapons and drifting into crime. We urge anyone with information about weapons on our streets to come forward so we can protect our communities.”
