Anthony Gilheaney Convicted of Murder in Christmas Day Rampage in London
Published 19 December 2025
Highlights
- Anthony Gilheaney, 31, was convicted of murder and multiple assaults following a violent spree in London's West End on Christmas Day 2024.
- The attack resulted in the death of Aidan Chapman, 25, and serious injuries to several others, including a couple returning from midnight mass.
- Gilheaney's actions were described as racially and homophobically motivated, with the prosecution highlighting his targeting of gay and Asian individuals.
- The court heard harrowing testimonies from victims, including Marcelo Basbus-Garcia and Miguel Waihrich, who were struck by Gilheaney's car.
- The trial at the Old Bailey revealed Gilheaney's violent tendencies, necessitating special security measures during proceedings.
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Rewritten Article
Headline: Anthony Gilheaney Convicted of Murder in Christmas Day Rampage in London
In a chilling case that shocked the nation, Anthony Gilheaney, 31, has been convicted of murder and multiple assaults following a drink-fuelled rampage in London's West End on Christmas Day 2024. The Old Bailey jury found Gilheaney guilty of murdering 25-year-old Aidan Chapman and attempting to murder two other men during a series of racially and homophobically motivated attacks.
A Night of Terror in the West End
The tragic events unfolded in the early hours of Christmas Day when Gilheaney, heavily intoxicated, embarked on a violent spree after leaving Bar Rumba on Shaftesbury Avenue. The prosecution described how he first engaged in a fight with strangers before launching a racist assault on Hardeep Singh, a Sikh passerby. Gilheaney's violence escalated as he attacked another Asian man, Arif Khan, with a suspected screwdriver.
Deadly Car Attack
CCTV footage presented in court showed Gilheaney climbing into his uninsured Mercedes, which bore false number plates, and driving at pedestrians on Great Windmill Street. Among the victims were Marcelo Basbus-Garcia and Miguel Waihrich, a couple returning from midnight mass. Waihrich recounted the terrifying moment he shielded his unconscious partner from Gilheaney's speeding car, pleading for him to stop.
Aidan Chapman's Tragic Death
The rampage culminated in the tragic death of Aidan Chapman, who suffered catastrophic head injuries after being struck by Gilheaney's vehicle. Chapman succumbed to his injuries on New Year's Eve. His friend, Tyrone Itorho, narrowly escaped with his life.
Courtroom Drama and Verdict
Throughout the trial, Gilheaney maintained he was not a racist, citing his background in the Irish travelling community as a reason for his own experiences of discrimination. However, the jury was unconvinced, finding him guilty of murder, wounding with intent, and causing grievous bodily harm. Special security measures were implemented during the trial due to Gilheaney's violent tendencies.
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Scenario Analysis
The conviction of Anthony Gilheaney brings a measure of justice to the victims and their families, but it also raises broader questions about the societal issues of racism and homophobia. Legal experts suggest that this case could prompt a review of how hate crimes are prosecuted and the support systems available to victims. Politically, the incident may lead to increased calls for stricter regulations on alcohol consumption and vehicle insurance to prevent similar tragedies. As the community grapples with the aftermath, the focus will likely shift towards healing and ensuring such violence does not recur.
In a chilling case that shocked the nation, Anthony Gilheaney, 31, has been convicted of murder and multiple assaults following a drink-fuelled rampage in London's West End on Christmas Day 2024. The Old Bailey jury found Gilheaney guilty of murdering 25-year-old Aidan Chapman and attempting to murder two other men during a series of racially and homophobically motivated attacks.
A Night of Terror in the West End
The tragic events unfolded in the early hours of Christmas Day when Gilheaney, heavily intoxicated, embarked on a violent spree after leaving Bar Rumba on Shaftesbury Avenue. The prosecution described how he first engaged in a fight with strangers before launching a racist assault on Hardeep Singh, a Sikh passerby. Gilheaney's violence escalated as he attacked another Asian man, Arif Khan, with a suspected screwdriver.
Deadly Car Attack
CCTV footage presented in court showed Gilheaney climbing into his uninsured Mercedes, which bore false number plates, and driving at pedestrians on Great Windmill Street. Among the victims were Marcelo Basbus-Garcia and Miguel Waihrich, a couple returning from midnight mass. Waihrich recounted the terrifying moment he shielded his unconscious partner from Gilheaney's speeding car, pleading for him to stop.
Aidan Chapman's Tragic Death
The rampage culminated in the tragic death of Aidan Chapman, who suffered catastrophic head injuries after being struck by Gilheaney's vehicle. Chapman succumbed to his injuries on New Year's Eve. His friend, Tyrone Itorho, narrowly escaped with his life.
Courtroom Drama and Verdict
Throughout the trial, Gilheaney maintained he was not a racist, citing his background in the Irish travelling community as a reason for his own experiences of discrimination. However, the jury was unconvinced, finding him guilty of murder, wounding with intent, and causing grievous bodily harm. Special security measures were implemented during the trial due to Gilheaney's violent tendencies.
What this might mean
The conviction of Anthony Gilheaney brings a measure of justice to the victims and their families, but it also raises broader questions about the societal issues of racism and homophobia. Legal experts suggest that this case could prompt a review of how hate crimes are prosecuted and the support systems available to victims. Politically, the incident may lead to increased calls for stricter regulations on alcohol consumption and vehicle insurance to prevent similar tragedies. As the community grapples with the aftermath, the focus will likely shift towards healing and ensuring such violence does not recur.
