Tragic Mistaken Identity Murder Shocks West London
Three men have been locked up for the brutal killing of Sven Badzak, 22, a promising law student stabbed to death on a busy West London high street. The savage attack, which took place on February 6, 2021, appears to be a case of mistaken identity.
Two Sentenced to 27 Years for Fatal Stabbing
Metropolitan Police detectives cracked the case using CCTV and phone records, proving the trio’s presence at the scene and their frequent contact. Rashid Gedel, 22, from Ilford, and Shiroh Ambersley, 23, from Wembley, were each handed 27 years for Sven’s murder. They also received 12 years concurrently for grievous bodily harm to Sven’s 16-year-old friend, who was seriously injured that night.
Third Man Gets Seven and a Half Years for Manslaughter
Harvey Canavan, 19, from Walterton Road, was sentenced to seven and a half years for manslaughter. Detective Inspector John Marriott expressed condolences to Sven’s family and hailed the bravery of the surviving victim, whose courage was key in bringing the villains to justice.
Brutal Night Fueled by Knife Crime and No Remorse
Police revealed the attackers went out armed, hunting for victims. Gedel even bragged about the attack on social media after the killing. Tragically, Sven and his friend were spotted and attacked because they were mistakenly believed to be rival gang members. In reality, the two were just friends heading home after a shop visit.
Witnesses reported Gedel and Ambersley eyeing up potential victims in a bakery before they crossed paths with Sven and his friend. The attackers demanded, “What are you on?” before stabbing Sven in the chest and the younger victim in the back. Sven tried to flee but collapsed in the street while being further assaulted. The attackers chased the second victim into a supermarket before finally fleeing.
Police Appeal for Information Remains Open
Despite immediate paramedic attention, Sven died at the scene. Following a thorough investigation, police identified and arrested the suspects. Detectives released images related to the case in February 2022 and continue to seek public help.
- If you have information, contact police on 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 5580/06FEB21.
- Alternatively, give anonymous tips to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
