An 18-year-old man has been jailed for 12 years after fatally stabbing 17-year-old Nathan Bawuah during a confrontation in Hackney, following a Metropolitan Police investigation.
Rio Lue, of Pembury Road, Hackney, was sentenced today (Friday, May 2) at Wood Green Crown Court after being found guilty of manslaughter at Snaresbrook Crown Court last November. He had previously pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon.
How the Attack Unfolded
Through forensic examination and detailed CCTV analysis, detectives identified Lue cycling to the scene before getting into a confrontation with Nathan.
Evidence showed that Lue produced a large machete and stabbed Nathan in the chest, causing catastrophic injuries.
The attack occurred just before 11:00pm on Saturday, February 17, 2024, on Hackney Road, E2.
Despite swift efforts by officers and the London Ambulance Service, Nathan was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police Statement
Detective Sergeant Dean Musgrove, who led the investigation, said:
Nathan Bawuah was killed in a brutal, cold-blooded assault that lasted seconds but was so severe he died at the scene.
Our thoughts remain as always with Nathan’s friends and family as they move forward with their lives, safe in the knowledge that Lue is behind bars where he belongs.
Lue maintained a “no comment” stance during police interviews but later submitted a prepared statement claiming self-defence. He was subsequently charged with murder on February 21, 2024.
Justice for Nathan’s Family
Specialist officers have been supporting Nathan’s family throughout the judicial process, as they continue to grieve the tragic loss of their loved one.
The sentencing concludes a major chapter in the case, bringing a measure of justice for Nathan’s family and friends.
