A 19-year-old man has made a court appearance, facing charges related to the stabbing death of Michael Patrick Afonso Peixoto in Thornton Heath. The tragic incident occurred on December 19, 2023, at approximately 10:30 pm when police were summoned to Mayfield Crescent in Thornton Heath.

Mr. Peixoto, aged 27, was discovered at the scene with stab wounds and succumbed to his injuries. The Metropolitan Police reported that inquiries into the murder are ongoing, and the investigation remains active.

The defendant, John Budal, 19, hailing from Ena Road in Streatham, has been charged with several offences, including murder, robbery, possession of an offensive weapon, and possession of cannabis. Budal appeared before Bromley Magistrates Court on Saturday, December 30, to address these charges.

During the court hearing, Budal was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to make his next appearance at the Old Bailey on January 3.

According to the Metropolitan Police, it is believed that a group of men was involved in the attack on Mr Peixoto. A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder on December 24 and subsequently released on bail pending further investigations.

Individuals with any information pertinent to the case are urged to contact the police by dialling 101 or using ‘X’ @MetCC, referencing the CAD (Computer-Aided Dispatch) reference 7509/19Dec. Alternatively, they can choose to reach out to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

The court proceedings and ongoing investigation continue to seek justice and answers surrounding the tragic death of Michael Patrick Afonso Peixoto.