A young man lost his life in a tragic drug-related ambush that shocked the community of Croydon in 2021. The perpetrators, Julian Russell, Tyreece Wolfries- Parkins, Alex Pasley, and Tyreece Riggon, faced justice as they were sentenced to a total of 67 years behind bars at the Old Bailey.
In the heart of Croydon, on February 5, 2021, 22-year-old Lavaun Witter fell victim to a brutal attack when four men armed with long knives and swords forcibly entered a flat on Wisbeach Road at around 8 pm. Desperate for drugs, the assailants confronted Lavaun and two others, including a 16-year-old boy, demanding their stash. The situation escalated quickly as they broke through internal barriers to reach their target.
Among the assailants, Julian Russell and Tyreece Wolfries- Parkins received the harshest punishment, with life sentences of 24 years and 20 years, respectively. Alex Pasley was sentenced to 17 years in prison, while Tyreece Riggon received a six-year sentence. The severity of their actions was evident in the tragic aftermath of the attack, where Lavaun and the 16-year-old victim managed to flee, but Lavaun succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Detective Chief Inspector Mike Nolan, the Senior Investigating Officer on the case, expressed deep sorrow over the senseless violence that claimed Lavaun’s life. He commended the bravery of the victim’s family and the community for their unwavering support throughout the investigation, acknowledging the profound impact of the tragedy on their lives.
The meticulous investigation that followed, combining witness testimonies and CCTV evidence, led to the identification and subsequent arrest of the four perpetrators. Riggon and Russell were apprehended during a police raid on February 18, 2021, with incriminating evidence linking them to the crime scene. A search of Russell’s associated address yielded a poignant discovery—a Louis Vuitton bag that belonged to Lavaun, serving as a poignant reminder of the life lost to senseless violence.
In the weeks that followed, Wolfries- Parkins and Pasley were also brought into custody, further solidifying the case against them. Through a comprehensive analysis of witness statements and phone records, law enforcement pieced together a compelling narrative that culminated in a trial at the Old Bailey on July 17, 2023. The verdict was clear—Russell and Wolfries- Parkins were guilty of murder, while Pasley was found guilty of manslaughter.
As the judicial process continued, a re-trial on November 4, 2024, delivered justice for the remaining defendants. Riggon was convicted of attempted GBH, highlighting the violent nature of the attack, while Pasley faced additional charges related to the assault on the 16-year-old victim. The legal proceedings underscored the gravity of the crime and the unwavering dedication of law enforcement to seek accountability for the tragic loss of life.
In the wake of this harrowing event, the community of Croydon stands united in remembrance of Lavaun Witter, a young man whose life was cut short by a senseless act of violence. The collective efforts of law enforcement, witnesses, and the justice system serve as a testament to the resilience and determination of those seeking justice in the face of tragedy. As the perpetrators face the consequences of their actions, the memory of Lavaun lives on, a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of violence on individuals, families, and communities alike.
