Zombie knife ‘tit-for-tat’ murder accused in court

Daejaun Campbell, 15, died after being stabbed in the leg in Woolwich, London on September 22.

Daejaun Campbell, 15, was fatally stabbed in Woolwich, south-east London (Metropolitan Police/PA)

A teenager has appeared at the Old Bailey charged with the alleged “tit-for-tat” murder of a 15-year-old boy with a zombie knife two days before the weapons were banned.

Daejaun Campbell had cried out “I’m 15, don’t let me die” after being stabbed in the leg at around 6.35pm on September 22.

Despite the efforts of officers and paramedics at the scene, he died a short time later.

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

Family statement

Three young men have been charged with his murder, with the first, Jacob Losiewicz, appearing at the Old Bailey on Monday.

During the hearing, prosecutor William Emlyn Jones KC said the killing in Eglinton Road, Woolwich, south-east London, came amid “tit-for-tat violence with all the hallmarks of a turf war”.

It is alleged that Losiewicz, 18, had driven the group to the scene in his mother’s car.

During the attack, Daejaun was fatally stabbed in the thigh and also suffered injuries to his hands and a wound to the head, the court heard.

Before leaving the scene, it is alleged one of the attackers retrieved a machete before running away.

Losiewicz appeared in court via video-link from Thameside prison and spoke to confirm his identity during a short hearing before Judge Philip Katz KC.

A plea hearing was set for December 16 and a provisional trial from June 9 next year.

The defendant, of Church Manor Way, Abbey Wood, was remanded into custody.

Two other defendants, Marko Balaz, 18, of Sewell Road, Abbey Wood, and a 17-year-old youth, are expected to appear at the Old Bailey later this week.

Daejaun’s family have previously issued a statement calling for an end to “this senseless killing”.

They said: “Daejaun was known for walking with the biggest smile and even bigger heart, he would always do his up most best to help anyone.

“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.”