Two 25-year-old men have appeared in court charged with the murder of 21-year-old film student Finbar Sullivan during a violent brawl at Primrose Hill in north London.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Finbar Sullivan suffered fatal injuries after being kicked, punched, and stabbed around 6:40 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, at the viewpoint of the popular beauty spot. Numerous witnesses observed the altercation, with some capturing footage on their mobile phones. Emergency calls reported a fight involving young males, prompting responses from police and the London Ambulance Service.
Sullivan entered the park at 6:25 p.m. and joined friends before a group allegedly surrounded him. Ernest Boateng, 25, faces accusations of kicking Sullivan’s legs out from under him, causing him to fall. Alexis Bidace, also 25, allegedly punched and kicked him alongside Oluwadamilola Ogunyankinnu, 27. An unidentified male reportedly stabbed Sullivan in the thigh, inflicting an unsurvivable wound that led to his death at the scene.
Court Appearance and Charges
Boateng and Bidace, both from Enfield, appeared via videolink from Wandsworth prison at the Old Bailey. They confirmed their identities and face murder charges. Prosecutor Jennifer Newcomb described the event as an eruption of extreme violence. Judge Angela Rafferty KC scheduled a plea hearing for July 1, with co-accused Ogunyankinnu also from Enfield. A provisional trial date is set for April 5 next year. All three remain in custody.
Victim’s Background
Known as Fin to friends, Sullivan studied at the London Screen Academy. His father, Chris Sullivan, revealed that his son visited Primrose Hill to test a new birthday camera. Speaking about the loss, he said: “I can’t believe it. He was the most beautiful, lovely, outgoing, loving boy. He was just a really lovely person. Why he was targeted, we have no idea. He was just a little groovy 21-year-old who loved movies and making films. He didn’t drink, he didn’t smoke, he didn’t go out. He’d stay at home editing his films six nights a week. He wanted to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps and be a cameraman. He recently did a video for Joseph Corre, Vivienne Westwood’s son. We were just about to start a company together… he was going to do his showreel today with me. And now he’s dead.”
Police Investigation and Additional Charges
Detective Inspector Andy Griffin, leading the probe, stated: “My thoughts remain with Finbar’s family who continue to receive support from specialist officers at this unimaginably difficult time. Although we have made two arrests, my officers continue to work around the clock to trace everyone involved. I’d like to thank the public who have come forward with information so far. If you are yet to speak to us, or share footage from Tuesday relating to this incident, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Anything you submit could have a huge impact on our investigation. In the meantime, residents can expect to see an increased police presence as dedicated local officers continue patrols in Primrose Hill and the surrounding areas.”
Separately, Khalid Abdulqadir, 18, from Camden, faces charges of grievous bodily harm with intent against another victim, violent disorder, and knife possession related to the same incident.
