A homeless man has admitted killing a 77-year-old pensioner and attacking two other people in a market on a Remembrance Sunday morning.
On Thursday, Musse Ali, 68, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Hilkiah McLeggan in East Street market in Walworth, South London, on Sunday, November 10 2024.
Ali also admitted wounding Ho Man Yau and Baheru Nadew Bartura with intent and having an article with a blade during a hearing before Judge Nigel Lickley KC.
Details of the Incident
At an earlier hearing, prosecutor Danny Robinson KC said the incident began at around 10.30am when Ali was caught on CCTV entering the market and going into a shop. He proceeded to jump over a counter and appeared to try to steal something before the manager pushed him away.
Outside the shop, he produced a knife and stabbed three people in quick succession, the court was told. He lunged at other members of the public before he was detained by stall holders and arrested.
Mr McLeggan died at the scene from a stab wound to the back. The other two victims were taken to hospital with serious injuries.
Mental Health Background
While at Brixton police station, Ali stated that he 'did not intend to murder'. The court had heard Ali had been diagnosed with schizoeffective disorder and had failed to take medication to treat psychosis in April 2024 when he became homeless.
Scotland Yard said at the time the incident was not being treated as a terrorist attack.
Legal Proceedings
Ali had originally been charged with murder and two offences of attempted murder but the prosecution accepted pleas to lesser alternative charges. Judge Lickley adjourned the case until May 1 when a sentencing date is expected to be set.
