A 38-year-old man, Jurejs Vankovs, has been arrested on suspicion of murdering 49-year-old father Michael John Murphy, who was found fatally stabbed in Hackney on Boxing Day. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest following a tragic incident that occurred in the early hours of December 26, 2023, on Cranwood Street in east London, near Old Street station.
Michael John Murphy was assaulted during the early hours of Boxing Day, succumbing to his injuries despite receiving treatment at the scene. The initial police statement indicated that the attack had taken place following an altercation involving approximately 10 individuals.
Previously, four individuals, comprising two men aged 49 and 42, and two women aged 35 and 44, had been taken into custody on suspicion of murder. However, they were subsequently released without any further action being taken against them.
According to the Metropolitan Police, both Jurejs Vankovs and Michael Murphy were acquainted with each other and were leading a “transient lifestyle” in the Shoreditch area.
Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, responsible for policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, expressed condolences to Michael Murphy’s family, acknowledging the challenging circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly given its occurrence during the Christmas period. He also reiterated the appeal for witnesses who may have been present in the vicinity to come forward with any information that could assist the investigation.
Michael Murphy’s tragic death is part of a series of fatal stabbings that have plagued the capital during the festive season. Incidents occurred on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day, with the latest incident involving the fatal stabbing of 16-year-old schoolboy Harry Pitman on Primrose Hill as thousands gathered to watch the New Year’s firework display. The Metropolitan Police has released an image of the victim and confirmed the arrest of another 16-year-old on suspicion of murder, who remains in custody. Harry Pitman’s murder marked the 17th teenage fatality in London in 2023.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Michael Murphy’s tragic death is ongoing, as the police work diligently to bring justice and answers to his grieving family.
