A man has been jailed for life for murdering a teenager twenty years younger than him.
Sadikee Williams, 37. from Stockwell, will serve a minimum of 21 years in prison for killing Keane Flynn-Harling, 16, from Lambeth, on July 5 last year after being sentenced today (Wednesday June 8) at Isleworth Crown Court. He was found guilty of murder at the same court on May 27.
The killing took place after Keane and his friends walked past Williams who was with two other males on the first floor flat of Sturminster House, Kibworth Street, Vauxhall.
A short exchange followed, before Williams ran out of of the flat and stabbed Keane in the neck and face.
Keane ran a short distance before collapsing. His friends were chased by the other two males but escaped.
Police officers and the London Ambulance Service attended the scene, but tragically Keane was pronounced dead 45 minutes after the incident. He had died from the deep stab wound to his neck. Police said he also received a significant stab wound to his face.
In the interview with police, Williams replied no comment to all questions and, to this day, his motive remains unclear.
Williams was arrested a week after the killing, when officers identified him because he was wearing the same distinctive jacket he had on the night of the murder.
Officers searching Sturminster House found the jacket and, using mobile phone cell site data, placed Williams in the vicinity of the address at the time of the murder.
He eventually admitted being at the flat at the trial, but denied leaving the property to carry out the attack. On July 14 last year he was charged with murder and possession of an offensive weapon.
Man who ruthlessly stabbed a teenage boy in the street with no clear motive is convicted of murder
Detective Inspector Adam Guttridge, from Specialist Crime South, said: “Williams is a dangerous individual who did not hesitate in killing a teenage boy in cold blood. Whilst his reasons for carrying out the murder remain unknown, what we do know is that the moment he saw Keane and his friends that evening he was intent on causing serious harm and had no regard for the consequences or devastation he would cause. Keane’s family have had to suffer this unbearable loss because of his actions.
“While Williams made efforts to hide his tracks, it was thanks to the efforts of the officers in their meticulous work around CCTV and mobile phone analysis, as well as the testimonies of a number of key witnesses that we were able to present such a strong case and secure this prosecution.”
Keane’s family said: “Keane was a beautiful, kind, caring and loving son. A wonderful young man who would always light up a room. He had a huge smile and an even bigger heart. His family meant everything to him. He was a doting older brother and cousin who enjoyed riding bikes and playing football with his friends.
“Keane’s presence will be sadly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, especially his mother, father, brothers and sister.”