Gang Murder Verdict at Old Bailey: Joshua White Killed in Brutal Knife Attack
Taylar Isaac, 20, and David Kerrigan, 20, both from Hackney, were found guilty of murdering 29-year-old Joshua White. The trial at the Old Bailey ended on Friday, April 16. Theo Momodu, 18, from Hackney, had already pleaded guilty to murder.
All three men were also convicted of wounding another man with intent. Meanwhile, Harley McGivern, 20, from Hackney, was found guilty of perverting the course of justice for helping cover up the crime.
Fatal Attack Fueled by Gang ‘Ride Out’ Message
The court revealed chilling details about a gang text message from a prisoner urging members to ‘ride out’ and attack as a show of loyalty. On Friday, April 26, Momodu, Isaac, and Kerrigan drove in a stolen white SUV to Brenthouse Road, armed with knives and swords, wearing balaclavas.
- They confronted a grey Mercedes but the occupants drove off.
- The trio chased Joshua White on foot, weapons in hand, captured on CCTV.
- Joshua collided with a six-year-old girl on roller skates while fleeing, showing concern for her well-being.
- He was stabbed multiple times just yards from a shop before collapsing.
Despite emergency services rushing to save him, Joshua died in hospital later that day.
Second Stabbing Victim Survives Terrifying Attack
Not done with one victim, the gang returned in the SUV and stabbed another man in Wilton Way, who was with his partner and child. The man survived despite multiple stab wounds.
Police quickly circulated the SUV’s registration. Armed officers chased and stopped the vehicle after a crash. The suspects discarded clothing and fled on foot but were arrested soon after.
McGivern was caught for helping the gang by letting them use his flat and disposing of evidence.
Police and Family React to Shocking Violence
Detective Sergeant Andy Sheppard of the Met’s Specialist Crime Command said: “These men went out with the clear intention to stab people, caring only about gang respect and notoriety. Joshua was targeted at random, stabbed in broad daylight just feet from an innocent child. They attacked a second victim as well, again with no reason.”
“There is no place for this brutality on the streets of London. Young men caught up in this lifestyle are just cutting short their own lives and others. The community is safer knowing they will be behind bars for a long time.”
Joshua’s mother, Trisha Sargusingh, said: “My son Josh was kind, loving, happy and caring. His senseless murder has left a hole in my heart that will never be filled. We mourn all that he will never experience. Court was incredibly hard, but we hope a strong sentence will deter others from causing this pain.”
Joshua’s father, Leigh White, added: “The conviction won’t bring Joshua back or ease our pain, but it gives us some comfort to begin healing. This heartless killing should serve as a lesson to anyone considering carrying knives. Joshua’s death has left a huge void in all our lives.”
Sentencing will be scheduled at the Old Bailey at a later date.
