Vankovs Found Guilty of Michael Murphy’s Manslaughter
Jurejs Vankovs, 39, with no fixed address, was found guilty of manslaughter following the death of 49-year-old Michael Murphy. The verdict came after a trial at Wood Green Crown Court on Wednesday, 17 July.
Sentencing will take place at the same court on a date yet to be confirmed.
Deadly Stabbing After Christmas Night Brawl
The tragedy unfolded after an early morning altercation just after 3am on 26 December 2023 in Cranwood Street, EC1. Witnesses revealed the pair, who knew each other, engaged in a heated argument that quickly turned violent.
Vankovs chased Michael, who fell to the ground. As Michael tried to defend himself, Vankovs made a stabbing motion towards him. Michael screamed that he had been stabbed as Vankovs walked away.
Public Rush to Help But Injuries were Fatal
Bystanders rushed to help the injured Michael, but the stabbing had severed an artery in his leg. Paramedics arrived swiftly, yet Michael died at the scene despite their efforts.
Manhunt Ends in Arrest on New Year’s Day
Detectives launched an investigation, collecting CCTV footage tracing Vankovs’ flight from the scene. Leading a nomadic lifestyle around Hackney, Vankovs went into hiding. A specialist manhunt tracked him down, and he was arrested on New Year’s Day.
Although Vankovs refused to answer detectives’ questions, he was charged with Michael’s murder.
Detective Chief Inspector Kelly Allen said: “Michael’s life was taken away in seconds due to completely unnecessary violence by Jurejs Vankovs.
“Whatever sparked the attack, Vankovs’ aggressive response was totally out of proportion to any threat he faced. With Michael lying helpless on the ground, Vankovs chose to stab him—a fatal decision.
“This has left Michael’s family and friends devastated. Vankovs must now face the consequences of his actions.”
