Life Behind Bars for Killer in Brutal London Stabbing
A 19-year-old thug has been jailed for life after a robbery turned deadly, ending with the stabbing of 22-year-old Leo Marcus in broad daylight.
Knife-Wielding Robber Found Guilty
Shakim Purnell-Taylor, from Gunyard Mews, SE18, was convicted of murder at the Old Bailey on Friday, 10 January. He had earlier admitted to carrying a knife and committing robbery.
The court handed him a life sentence with a minimum 22 years behind bars. Additional sentences include six years and three months for robbery, 21 months for possession of a knife, and three years for drug offences – all running concurrently.
How The Fatal Attack Unfolded
- On 10 July 2019, Purnell-Taylor left his Greenwich home after receiving a tip-off about a drugs courier in Tellson Avenue, SE18.
- He spotted Leo Marcus arriving on a bike, followed him into an alley, and launched a savage knife attack.
- He then stole Leo’s rucksack and bike, trying to escape – but Leo fought back and knocked him off the stolen bike.
- In the ensuing struggle, Purnell-Taylor stabbed Leo six times, grabbed his phone, and fled.
- Leo collapsed and managed to call for help but later died from his injuries in hospital.
Relentless Police Hunt Leads to Arrest
Homicide detectives analyzed CCTV and traced Purnell-Taylor to Kennington, arresting him just days later on 14 July. He had a suspicious cut on his hand, which he lied about.
Despite denying involvement during police interviews, CCTV and phone data placed him firmly at the crime scene.
“Purnell-Taylor claimed he acted in self-defence but the jury saw through him. He deliberately murdered Leo,” said Detective Sergeant Rob Tickle.
“Leo Marcus’s death was a horrific tragedy and a waste of a young life. The family’s dignity throughout this has been incredible. Credit must also go to the public and emergency workers who tried to save him, and the police team that never gave up.”
