Thomas O’Halloran: Mobility scooter murder accused appears in court

A grandfather was fatally stabbed in the chest with a large knife as he rode his mobility scooter, a court heard today.

Lee Byer, 44, appeared at Willesden Magistrates’ Court today (Friday, August 19) charged with the murder of 87-year-old Thomas O’Halloran in Greenford, west London.

The victim - known to friends and family as Tom - was attacked in broad daylight on Tuesday afternoon as he rode his mobility scooter next to the busy A40.

Byer was arrested at an address is Southall, two miles from the murder scene, in the early hours of yesterday (Aug 18).

He appeared in the dock at Willesden Magistrates Court this morning (Friday, August 19) flanked by a security officer.

Byer spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and to give his address as no fixed abode.

Bald-headed Byer, wearing a grey prison-issued uniform, showed no emotion during the five minute hearing as the case against him was read out.

He was not asked to and did not enter any plea to one charge of murder and one charge of possession of an offensive weapon.

Louise Ahmad, prosecuting, said the attack took place on August 16 “on an 87-year-old grandfather who was known throughout the local community”.

She said: “The attack resulted in the victim collapsing from his mobility scooter on the junction of Runnymede Gardens and Cayton Road having been stabbed in the chest.

“He was found by members of the public who telephoned for assistance.”

Byer’s lawyer Malik Alderi made no representations to the court and did not make any bail application.

Deputy district judge Ross Cohen told Byer: “This is a matter that this court has no power to deal with.

“I am sending your case to the Central Criminal Court where you will appear for a plea and trial preparation hearing on September 16.

“A bail application is listed for 23 August.”

The same court will deal with the offensive weapon charge.