A man with a fascination for violent videos has been detained indefinitely after fatally stabbing a grandmother at a London bus stop. Jala Debella, 24, carried out the brutal attack on Anita Mukhey, 66, with a hunting knife, inflicting 18 stab wounds on May 9, 2024. Despite efforts from bystanders to save her, Mukhey succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Following a court hearing at the Old Bailey, Debella received a hospital order under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act and a restriction order under Section 41, allowing for his indefinite detention. Judge Philip Katz KC described Mukhey as a beloved family member and condemned the senseless act committed by a stranger in broad daylight.
Debella, residing in a mental health support facility in Colindale, North West London, was known to have a keen interest in graphic violent content online, particularly videos featuring extreme violence with weapons. Investigations revealed that he had purchased a hunting knife days before the incident and had engaged in online searches related to violent content.
CCTV footage captured Debella’s movements leading up to the attack, where he was seen returning to the scene after obtaining the knife. Witnesses reported hearing a distressing scream followed by Mukhey collapsing in the street. Subsequent forensic analysis linked Debella to the murder weapon, which was recovered by the authorities.
Despite his history of mental health issues and previous hospital detentions, Debella was arrested on suspicion of murder and weapon possession. Mukhey’s family expressed their grief over the loss of their matriarch and raised concerns about the failure to prevent the escalating behavior displayed by Debella prior to the tragedy.
Prosecutor Jonathan Polnay KC highlighted the disconnect between Debella’s outward stability and his dangerous actions, shedding light on the challenges of assessing and managing potential risks posed by individuals with severe mental illnesses. The court emphasized the need for thorough evaluations and interventions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Dr. Melanie Higgins, Debella’s medical consultant, confirmed his paranoid schizophrenia diagnosis and his ongoing treatment at a secure hospital. Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila from Scotland Yard acknowledged the tragic outcome for Mukhey’s family and commended the public for their efforts to assist during the incident.