Man convicted of murdering Sean O'Neill

A man has been convicted of murdering Sean O’Neill in west London following an investigation by Met detectives.

Dellan Charles, 23 (08.10.01) of no fixed address was found guilty on Tuesday, 17 December following a trial at Kingston Crown Court.

Charles was arrested after police issued a public appeal to trace him on 26 March. Within 24 hours officers had received information that led them to an address in Coventry where Charles was located. The following day he was charged with Sean’s murder.

Detective Inspector Kevin Martin, Specialist Crime South, said:“Sean found himself in the middle of a violent dispute between two groups. He was targeted by the defendant while he was running away and posing no threat.

"Sean was a much loved son and brother and I would like to pay tribute to his family who have remained resolute and dignified throughout the long manhunt and trial process.”

Sean’s family said in a statement: “It has been an extremely challenging 19 months since Sean was taken from us. Today’s verdict won’t bring Sean back or take away our unimaginable grief, but we are grateful that the person responsible has been held to account.

"We really appreciate the efforts of the Metropolitan Police and the CPS in bringing about justice, as well as the support we have received throughout this difficult process.

"Sean will be remembered for his big heart, charming smile and fun loving personality. He is incredibly loved by us all and we miss him every day.”

An investigation was launched after police were called on the evening of Thursday, 18 May 2023 to reports of a man found suffering injuries in Reynolds Road, Hayes.

Officers attended with the London Ambulance Service and found 30-year-old Sean with stab injuries. Despite the efforts of the emergency services, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

The jury heard that Charles chased and stabbed Sean when he became separated following a prolonged altercation in the street between their respective groups of friends.

A post mortem examination confirmed his death was caused by sharp force trauma to the chest and abdomen.

A second man - Shakil McCrea, 27 (19.12.96), of Sinclair Road, W14 - was convicted of possession of a knife. He was arrested on Tuesday, 23 May 2023 at an address in West Drayton and charged the following day. He will be sentenced on Wednesday, 18 December.

Charles will be sentenced on Monday, 17 March 2025.