17-year-old found guilty in the death of Kamari Johnson after dispute over a moped
A 17-year-old youth has been found guilty at the Old Bailey for the murder of 16-year-old Kamari
Johnson in Hayes, West London, following a dispute over a stolen moped.
The incident occurred on May 24 last year on Bourne Avenue, where Kamari was fatally injured.
The court heard that the conflict arose over a financial transaction related to the moped, with a disagreement over the price escalating to violence.
According to Prosecutor Joel Smith KC, an agreement was made in which Kamari was to receive £180 for the moped.
However, upon receiving the money, Kamari reportedly rode away without fulfilling his side of the deal.
This act was described in court as causing the defendant to feel embarrassed and angry.
Minutes after the transaction, the young defendant confronted Kamari at his residence, leading to a fatal stabbing.
The prosecution highlighted CCTV evidence showing the defendant pursuing Kamari on foot while carrying a large machete.
Kamari was able to flee momentarily on the moped but collapsed shortly after in a nearby car park, succumbing to his injuries.
During police interrogations, the youth chose not to answer questions and claimed self-defense in a prepared statement.
After 13 hours and 35 minutes of deliberation, the jury delivered a guilty verdict, prompting emotional reactions from Kamari's family present in court.
Sentencing has been scheduled for March 14.
Metropolitan Police Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila commended the public who attempted to assist Kamari during his final moments and those who supported the investigation, describing the murder as senseless.
The defendant remains in custody pending sentencing.