A top chef who tragically died near Notting Hill Carnival was “headbutted” and repeatedly punched in the head during a violent altercation, the Old Bailey heard today.

Omar Wilson, 31, appeared in court charged with the murder of 41-year-old Mussie Imnetu, a renowned chef who had worked under high-profile figures such as Gordon Ramsay and Marcus Wareing.

The incident occurred on August 26, just outside Queensway’s Dr Power restaurant, as carnival celebrations took place nearby. Prosecutors allege that Wilson attacked Mr Imnetu in a chance encounter, violently assaulting him after an argument escalated.

The court heard that Mr Imnetu was found unconscious with a serious head injury. Despite immediate medical intervention and being rushed to the hospital, he tragically died four days later on August 30.

Wilson, of Leytonstone, was originally charged with grievous bodily harm, but following Mr Imnetu’s death, the charge was upgraded to murder. He spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth during today’s hearing.

Prosecutors alleged that Wilson headbutted Mr Imnetu before repeatedly punching him in the head, even after he had fallen to the ground. The court was told that the attack “bore all the hallmarks” of a serious violent assault.

Mr. Imnetu, who was based in Dubai but in London on business, was well-known in the Turkish community and had worked at The Arts Club, a prestigious private members’ club in Mayfair.

Wilson remains in custody, and a plea and trial preparation hearing is set for November 25, with the trial expected to begin on February 3, 2025.