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A man has been convicted of murder following the fatal stabbing of 53-year-old Derek Thomas outside his home in Hackney last summer.
Kamar Williams, 34, of West Ferry Road, E14, was found guilty of murder and possession of an offensive weapon today at the Old Bailey, after a three-week trial.
The court heard how Williams, who had previously been in a relationship with Derek’s daughter, sent threatening text messages to her on the evening of 30 July 2024, ominously warning her to “watch this space.” Hours later, he drove to Benthal Road, N16, and fatally stabbed Derek Thomas outside his home at approximately 11:03pm.
“Brutal and Premeditated Attack”
According to prosecutors, Williams was captured on CCTV footage loitering outside the victim’s address, wearing distinctive reflective trainers that helped identify him. Moments after the fatal stabbing, he was seen fleeing the scene in a grey van.
Emergency services were called at 23:04hrs and despite paramedics’ best efforts, Derek Thomas died at the scene.
Detective Inspector John Marriott, who led the Met’s Specialist Crime investigation, said:
“This was a brutal and premeditated attack on a much-loved father. Kamar Williams showed clear intent that night… and carried out this senseless act of violence.”
Trail of Evidence Leads to Arrest
Police launched an immediate manhunt and recovered the abandoned grey van on 1 August in Langford Close, E8, where officers discovered a bank card belonging to Williams inside.
ANPR records placed the van multiple times between the crime scene and Williams’ home. In addition, Williams sought treatment at a hospital on 31 July for a 5cm cut to his left knee, believed to have occurred during the attack.
On 3 August, Williams evaded police during a traffic stop in a silver BMW in South East London, further escalating efforts to locate him.
After temporarily leaving London, he was finally arrested on 26 August 2024 within the footprint of Notting Hill Carnival. He was charged the following day.
Family Tribute: “He Will Never Be Forgotten”
In a statement read in court, Derek Thomas’s family said:
“Derek will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He was the life and soul of the family… His passing has left a massive hole in the lives of his wife, children, grandchildren, and all who knew him. He was greatly loved by all and will never be forgotten.”
Sentencing Date Set
Kamar Williams is due to be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 18 July.
