Family of Pensioner Beaten to Death by Mental Health Patient Speak Out After Sentencing
London – April 7, 2025 – The family of Bernard Fowler, an 87-year-old pensioner brutally killed by a mental health patient, have spoken of their “harrowing” ordeal after his killer was sentenced.
A Shocking and Unprovoked Attack
Bernard Fowler, a beloved father and grandfather from Hamilton Drive, Harold Wood, was killed during his regular early morning walk to Harold Wood train station to collect newspapers for his neighbours.
It was there that he encountered Sekai Miles, 23, a paranoid schizophrenic from Brent Cross Gardens, Hendon. Just weeks earlier, Miles had been released from a community treatment order. In a shocking and unprovoked attack, he gouged Bernard’s eyes and bludgeoned him with his own walking stick.
Heartbreak for the Family
In a statement released through British Transport Police, Bernard’s family expressed their grief:
“No sentence can ever bring our beloved Bernard back.
Bernard was a kind, loving grandfather, father and friend to everyone fortunate enough to have known him.
He brought warmth and joy to so many lives and his absence leaves a void that can never be filled. He will be deeply missed by all.
As a family, we respectfully ask for privacy as we begin to heal from this truly harrowing ordeal.
The family also took the opportunity to thank the officers involved in the investigation, especially Family Liaison Officer Jess Nye:
“Her unwavering guidance and support during this unimaginable time have been invaluable, and we are forever grateful. She is a true asset to the British Transport Police.”
Police Response
Detective Chief Inspector Sam Painter, the senior investigating officer for British Transport Police, condemned the brutal and senseless nature of the attack:
This was horrific and unprovoked violence which claimed the life of a much-loved and respected father and grandfather.
I know that no result can possibly make up for the pain and devastation that the loss of Bernard has brought, but I hope that the outcome will help them find comfort.”
A System Under Scrutiny
The incident has raised questions about the community treatment order system, as Miles had been released into the community just weeks before the fatal attack. Mental health campaigners are calling for a thorough review of how patients are monitored after being discharged from secure care.
Community Grief
Bernard Fowler was well-known and respected in the Harold Wood area. Neighbours described him as a kind soul who looked out for others, making the tragic news even harder to bear. One local resident said:
“Bernard was always so cheerful, even in his old age. He was a gentleman who would do anything for his community. It’s heartbreaking that his life ended in such a violent way.”
Seeking Closure
The family has requested privacy to mourn their loss, while expressing gratitude to those who worked tirelessly to ensure justice for Bernard. As the community continues to come to terms with this senseless act, there are renewed calls for improved mental health care and better post-release monitoring to prevent future tragedies.
