Jacob Koutouan, aged 22, from Stockwell Road, has been found guilty of the brutal murder of Jaden Christie. The verdict was delivered at Croydon Crown Court on Tuesday, 2 March 2021. The following day, 3 March, Koutouan was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years.
The tragic incident took place on 15 September 2020, when police were called by the London Ambulance Service at 2:50 pm to Stockwell Road. Jaden Christie was discovered with multiple stab wounds. Paramedics attempted to save him at the scene, but he sadly died there. A post-mortem examination at Greenwich mortuary confirmed the cause of death as knife wounds to the torso.
A family spokesperson described Jaden as “an amazing and intelligent soul with so much life and passion to give.” They added, “He was a victim of a senseless killer who ended his hopes and dreams in a brutal attack. Our family is shattered, grief-stricken and disheartened by such a malicious act.”
The family emphasized that Jaden was not involved in any gang activity, stating, “He was actually very anti-gangs and feared the violence that comes with them.” They also revealed that Jaden had recently started a new job with Deliveroo just two days before his death and had been accepted onto a construction course on the very day he was killed. “He dreamed of owning his own clothing line,” the spokesperson said.
“He loved his family and was the life and soul of every room. Such a vibrant life cut far too short. We’ll carry him in our hearts forever, but nothing replaces having him here with us,” the family added.
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Wood condemned the knife crime, stating, “This is another tragic loss of a young man to knife crime, leaving a huge gap in the lives of those who loved him.”
He continued, “Jaden was chased and stabbed 12 times in a vicious attack. Despite a thorough investigation, we still don’t know why Koutouan chose to attack him.”
“Koutouan tried to claim self-defence in court, but the jury rejected this. His lies only added to the grief of Jaden’s loved ones.”
Detective Chief Inspector Wood concluded, “I want to commend Jaden’s family for their resilience during this painful court process. I hope today’s verdict brings them some comfort.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
