Man convicted of Hackney murder

A man has been convicted of murdering 53-year-old Derek Thomas, who was fatally stabbed outside his home in Hackney in July 2024.

Today, Monday, 7 July, Kamar Williams, 34 (21.01.91) of West Ferry Road, E14, was found guilty of Derek’s murder following a trial at the Old Bailey.

The court heard how, in the early evening of 30 July 2024, Williams sent threatening text messages to Derek’s daughter, who was William’s ex-partner, warning her to “watch this space”.

Hours later, CCTV captured Williams driving a grey van along Benthal Road, N16. He stopped directly outside Derek’s home. Williams was wearing a pair of reflective trainers, which made him easily identifiable throughout the CCTV footage.

Williams was seen pacing along Benthal Road, loitering near Derek’s home, before disappearing out of shot. Moments later, he returned to his van and drove away at 23:03hrs.

At 23:04hrs, police received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting that a man had been stabbed with a ‘very big knife’. Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended, but despite their best efforts, Derek died at the scene.

Detective Inspector John Marriott, who led the investigation, said: “This was a brutal and premeditated attack on a much-loved father. Kamar Williams showed clear intent that night, driving to Derek’s home, waiting for the right moment, and carrying out this senseless act of violence.

“The swift response from our officers, combined with extensive CCTV, forensic work, and determination from our investigation team, led to his arrest and conviction.

“Our thoughts remain with Derek’s family, who have shown immense strength throughout this ordeal.”

Following the conviction, Derek’s family said: “Derek will be greatly missed by his family and friends, he was a dedicated family man and worked hard to provide for them. He was the life and soul of the family. Derek was always on hand to provide support, knowledge, advice and was a calming influence when it was required. His passing has left a massive hole in the lives of his wife, children, grandchildren, family and all that knew him. He was greatly loved by all and will never be forgotten.”

The investigation progressed rapidly. On 1 August 2024, police were contacted about an abandoned grey van on Langford Close, E8. Inside, officers recovered a bank card belonging to Williams from the driver’s seat, directly linking him to the vehicle.

Analysis of the Automatic Number Plate Recognition system showed that the van had travelled multiple times between the crime scene and Williams’ home address.

Enquiries at a local hospital also revealed that Williams had sought treatment for a 5cm cut to his left knee on 31 July, the day after the murder—further evidence tying him to the violent incident.

Williams repeatedly attempted to evade police. On 3 August, traffic officers tried to stop a silver BMW on Burnt Ash Hill, SE9, but the driver made off. It was later established that Williams was behind the wheel.

In a further effort to avoid arrest, Williams left London temporarily. However, following a manhunt, officers identified and arrested him within the footprint of Notting Hill Carnival on 26 August 2024. He was charged with murder the following day.

Kamar Williams was also found guilty of possession of an offensive weapon. He will be sentenced on Friday, 18 July at the same court.