A man characterized as a “gore video enthusiast” allegedly purchased a hunting knife online before fatally stabbing a woman 18 times while she waited at a bus stop in north London, according to court testimonies.
Witnesses reportedly observed Jala Debella executing the “pointless assault” on 66-year-old Anita Mukhey on Edgware Road on May 9, 2024, before he “nonchalantly walked away.”
During proceedings at the Old Bailey on Monday, jurors were informed that the 24-year-old Debella was unwell and unable to appear in court, and he has yet to enter a plea.
This court session is focused on determining the facts, which occurs when a defendant is considered unfit for trial, yet the prosecution aims to confirm if the alleged offenses were committed.
Prosecutor Jonathan Polnay KC explained to the jurors that their role was to establish whether Debella was responsible for Mukhey’s death, though it was not to assess whether it constituted murder.
It was revealed that Debella resided in a residential facility for individuals with mental health issues in Colindale, north-west London.
Polnay stated, “Debella took the life of Ms. Mukhey in a senseless act—insofar as the prosecution knows, they had no prior acquaintance.”
He noted that the defendant held a “specific fascination with extremely violent online videos” that featured graphic violence involving knives and other weapons.
Just three days prior to the incident, Debella ordered a hunting knife with a sheath from an online retailer, which was delivered on the morning of the attack, the court heard.
Following its arrival, it is alleged that he searched for “killing video” on his computer and visited a website known for explicit violent content.
CCTV footage documented Debella walking north along Edgware Road before he retraced his steps to the site where Mukhey was assaulted.
Thirty seconds later, she was seen collapsing in the street, with the first emergency call placed at 11:48 BST.
Jurors were informed there was a “piercing scream” just before she fell, while Debella “casually” departed from the scene.
Despite the attempts of emergency services to save her, Mukhey was pronounced dead at 12:22, the Old Bailey heard.
Later that day, police recovered a knife matching the description of the one purchased by Debella online, according to Polnay.
Forensic tests revealed the knife contained DNA belonging to both Debella and Mukhey, the court was informed.
Upon his return home, Debella allegedly conducted internet searches for terms like “knife,” “gore video,” and “breaking news.”
Jurors learned that police arrived at Debella’s residence at 16:46 and arrested him on suspicion of murder.
During a police interview, Debella refrained from making any statements and was charged with murder and possession of an offensive weapon.
The trial is ongoing.
