A 36-year-old man, Marcus Aurelio Arduini Monzo, appeared in court today, charged with murdering 14-year-old Daniel Anjorin and injuring four others in the Hainault sword rampage. Monzo, a dual Spanish and Brazilian national residing in Newham, East London, faces a litany of charges, including murder, attempted murder, grievous bodily harm, aggravated burglary, and possession of a bladed article.
During his court appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, Monzo, clad in a grey sweatshirt and tracksuit bottoms, confirmed his name while holding his left arm across his chest.
Monzo, known as ‘FreekingMark’ on social media, is described as an amateur musician and mystic. Recent social media posts depict him proudly displaying medals after winning a sports contest and donning Robin Hood attire during an archery game.
According to Prosecutor David Burns, the harrowing events unfolded on Tuesday morning when Monzo allegedly crashed a van into a fence, subsequently attacking a member of the public. Moments later, he purportedly broke into a nearby home, assaulting a couple and their four-year-old daughter.
The most tragic incident occurred when Monzo allegedly attacked Daniel Anjorin, who was walking to school, slashing his neck and stabbing him in the chest.
Police officers arrived at the scene and attempted to assist Daniel when Monzo emerged from a bush, attacking a female officer with a sword and injuring a second officer.
Daniel Anjorin, a beloved Bancroft’s School in Woodford Green student, was remembered as a ‘true scholar’ with a ‘gentle character’ who brought joy to his family and community.
As Daniel’s family grapples with profound shock and grief, Bancroft’s School expressed devastation over his untimely death, flying its flag at half-mast in his honour.
Close friends of Daniel’s family revealed their deep Christian faith is sustaining them through this traumatic time, as they believe they will be reunited with Daniel in heaven.
The community of Hainault continues to mourn the loss of Daniel Anjorin, a young life tragically taken in a senseless act of violence.
