Hainault swordsman attacked ambulance, Old Bailey hears

Lucy Manning & James Bryant report on a harrowing incident in north-east London, where 14-year-old Daniel Anjorin was tragically killed in a sword attack while on his way to school. Paramedic Stephanie Baisden recounted the fear she experienced when the defendant, Marcus Monzo, allegedly turned on the ambulance as they tried to assist the injured boy. Monzo, 37, is currently on trial at the Old Bailey facing charges of murder and attempted murder of four others during a series of attacks in Hainault.

During the trial, Baisden described the “extremely terrifying” moment when Monzo started attacking the ambulance with a sword. She recalled seeing Daniel injured on the road and her colleague urgently telling her to drive away as Monzo approached the vehicle with a large machete-type weapon. The situation was described as extremely stressful as Monzo attempted to force the sword through the windows of the ambulance.

Body worn camera footage shown in court depicted the intense confrontation between police officers and Monzo as he wielded a sword on the street. PC Cameron King recounted his petrifying experience trying to disarm Monzo with pepper spray as he shouted about gods. Monzo then ran off down an alleyway, leading officers on a pursuit. The jury also witnessed footage of PC Yasmin Mechem-Whitfield being attacked by Monzo, resulting in her being slashed multiple times with the sword.

Eye-witness Robert Fenton provided testimony detailing the tragic moment when Daniel fell to the ground after being attacked. Monzo, who denies all charges, also faces allegations of wounding with intent, aggravated burglary, and possession of an offensive weapon. Despite admitting to having two swords, the trial is ongoing as the court continues to hear the evidence presented

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