Double Murder Charges Shock London Communities
A 40-year-old man already facing trial for one murder has now been charged with killing a second woman in separate incidents across London. Simon Levy, from Beaufoy Road in Tottenham, north London, stands accused of murdering 53-year-old Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo, whose body was discovered on the Aylesbury Estate in Peckham, south-east London.
The new charge comes just months after Levy was charged with murdering Sheryl Wilkins, 39, who was found unresponsive in a car park off High Road, Tottenham, on August 24. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Victim's Family Seeks Answers
Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo had built a life in London over nearly three decades after moving from her native Colombia in search of better opportunities. The hardworking cleaner had dedicated years to providing for her two children before her tragic death on March 17.
Her son Bryan, 26, previously spoke to Metro about the family's desperate need for answers. "We need to know how this happened. We need answers," he said emotionally. "My mother hugged me and blessed me as she always did before she went out as she was a very religious person. That's the last time I saw her."
The devastated son described how the family dog still waits at the door for Carmenza's return, calling the situation "heartbreaking." He revealed his mother had recently become a grandmother and was "extremely happy" about her first grandson, adding painfully: "She had everything to live for."
Complex Police Investigation
The investigation into Carmenza's death presented immediate challenges when a post-mortem examination failed to determine the cause of death. This prompted a thorough police investigation that ultimately led to the additional murder charge against Levy.
Levy is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday to face the murder charge for Ms Valencia-Trujillo's death. Meanwhile, he remains due at the Old Bailey on Wednesday for a plea and trial preparation hearing concerning Sheryl Wilkins' murder.
The accused faces additional serious charges including grievous bodily harm with intent, non-fatal strangulation and two counts of rape against a third woman. These alleged offences occurred in Haringey, north London, on January 21, though the victim cannot be named for legal reasons.
Commander Clair Kelland, who leads the Met's public protection team, emphasised the force's commitment to protecting women and girls. "We are working closely with partners across relevant boroughs, including Haringey and Southwark, to encourage reporting and raise awareness of the support we can provide to victim-survivors," she stated.
Police have issued a direct appeal for anyone with information to come forward, suggesting there may be individuals who have yet to report incidents they were directly impacted by.
Jaswant Narwal of the Crown Prosecution Service confirmed the decision to prosecute, reminding all concerned that "proceedings against the defendant are active and he has a right to a fair trial."
