Three teenagers suspected of murdering a 15-year-old boy in a zombie knife attack are accused of carrying out the stabbing in a “tit-for-tat” turf war, a court has heard.
Jacob Losiewicz and Marko Balaz, both 18, are accused along with a 17-year-old boy of killing Daejaun Campbell in a fatal attack in Woolwich last week.
Daejaun cried out “I’m 15, don’t let me die” after being stabbed in the thigh at around 6.35pm on September 22 in Eglinton Road, Woolwich.
Despite the efforts of officers and paramedics at the scene, he died a short time later.
Losiewicz, of Church Manor Way, Abbey Wood, appeared at the Old Bailey via videolink from HMP Thameside for a hearing on Monday morning.
“In that area there had been a series of encounters amounting to tit-for-tat violence with all the hallmarks of a turf war,” said prosecutor Bill Emlyn Jones KC.
Daejaun was stabbed in the thigh and head by attackers who had allegedly laid in wait, while CCTV “shows one of the group turning back to retrieve a machete from the ground”, the prosecutor said.
Daejaun “suffered a deep wound to the left thigh which was fatal,” added Mr Emlyn Jones.
Losiewicz was remanded in custody by Judge Philip Katz KC until a plea hearing on December 16.
Balaz, of Sewell Road, Abbey Wood, appeared at Bromley magistrates court on Saturday, and is expected to have an Old Bailey hearing tomorrow.
The 17-year-old, who cannot be identified due to his age, is due to appear at the magistrates court on Monday.
All three are charged with murder.
In the aftermath of the stabbing, a neighbour said she heard Daejaun cry out “I’m 15, don’t let me die” after he was stabbed.
Daejuan’s family paid tribute to his “calming nature and enthusiastic attitude”, saying he would “manifest a happy atmosphere” among his friends and relatives.
“Daejaun was known for walking with the biggest smile and even bigger heart, he would always do his up most best to help anyone”, they said.
“Daejaun had a joyful spirit, full of wit and charm with the incredible ability to light up a room with his presence and impactful smile.”
