An 87-year-old man described as a "proud Irishman" and beloved community figure was brutally attacked and left for dead on a North London street—for nothing more than a bag containing a box of cornflakes and a shepherd’s pie, a court was told this week.
John Mackey, who had been shopping for food and a newspaper at a Co-op store on the afternoon of Tuesday, May 6, was later seen purchasing a meal from a nearby kebab shop before walking home. Prosecutors allege that he was followed and violently assaulted on Goodchild Road in the Manor House area.
Emergency services were called at approximately 5:53 p.m., after Mr. Mackey was found unconscious and bleeding from a head injury. He was rushed to hospital where he briefly regained consciousness, but succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Crown Prosecutor Ben Holt told the court that a witness reported seeing a man standing over Mr. Mackey, shouting “give me the bag,” while the elderly victim lay motionless on the pavement.
On Wednesday, Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, who is leading the investigation, provided a heartfelt glimpse into the life of the victim. “John was a proud Irishman and an innocent member of the public, simply returning home after running errands when this senseless act occurred,” he said.
Mr. Mackey was born in Callan, County Kilkenny, Ireland, and moved to London in the 1950s. One of eleven children, he was an uncle to 22 nieces and nephews and is survived by four siblings. Known for his humour and charm, he was a lifelong Arsenal supporter and a well-loved figure in his community.
“John’s family will accompany him on one final journey home to Ireland, where he will be laid to rest,” said DCI Rogers. “We want to reassure the public that a suspect has been charged, and no other individuals are being sought in connection with his death.”
The accused, 58-year-old Peter Augustine of Green Lanes, Hornsey, was arrested on May 8 and charged with murder and robbery. He appeared at the Old Bailey on Tuesday for a preliminary hearing. Judge Richard Marks KC scheduled a two-week trial beginning November 3, with a plea hearing set for July 29
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