A Spanish-Brazilian national named Marcus Arduini Monzo has been remanded in custody following a tragic incident of the death of a 14-year-old boy in East London.
Monzo stands accused of a violent rampage on Tuesday, wielding a Samurai-style sword that resulted in the death of 14-year-old Daniel Anjorin and left four others wounded. The shocking crime unfolded as Anjorin walked to school, sending shockwaves across the nation. Monzo, 36, also stands accused of gravely injuring two police officers, both of whom underwent surgery and remain hospitalized. One officer, a woman, suffered severe arm injuries, narrowly escaping the loss of a hand, as reported by London’s Metropolitan Police.
Monzo, hailing from east London, faced charges of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and various other offenses, brought against him on Wednesday. Appearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday morning, he wore a grey sweatshirt and tracksuit bottoms, clutching his left arm across his chest while confirming his identity.
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldpsring ordered Monzo’s remand in custody, scheduling his appearance at London’s Old Bailey court for the following Tuesday, pending availability for a hearing on Friday.
The events transpired just before 7:00 am on Tuesday when Monzo allegedly crashed a van into a house fence, injuring a 33-year-old man before purportedly stabbing him in the neck. Subsequently, he is accused of assaulting a 35-year-old man in a nearby property, inflicting arm lacerations before the fatal attack on Anjorin.
Police swiftly responded, arriving at the scene 12 minutes after the initial emergency call. Attempts to subdue Monzo with incapacitant spray and a Taser proved ineffective, prompting him to flee. Terrified witnesses sought refuge as police pursued, eventually overpowering and detaining Monzo 22 minutes later. Authorities have clarified that the attack does not appear to be terror-related but have refrained from commenting on suspected motives.