Christmas Day Horror: Man Admits Fatal Car Attack

A trial is underway at the Old Bailey for Anthony Gilheaney, 31, who is accused of murdering Aidan Chapman, 25, on Christmas Day in London's West End. Gilheaney, from Harlow, Essex, denies murder but has admitted to the manslaughter of Mr. Chapman, along with unlawful wounding, grievous bodily harm, and assault charges related to four other individuals. The prosecution maintains that these were unprovoked attacks where Gilheaney used his powerful Mercedes to hit pedestrians.

The court heard allegations that Gilheaney first struck Arif Khan with his car, used racial slurs, and then physically assaulted him. He then reportedly drove his vehicle at other pedestrians. Among those injured were Marcelo Basbus-Garcia and his partner Miguel Waihrich, who were returning from Midnight Mass, and Mr. Chapman's friend Tyrone Itorho. Sadly, Mr. Chapman succumbed to his injuries on New Year's Eve.

During his testimony, Gilheaney stated he was not in control of the vehicle and lacked intent to harm anyone, admitting he was drunk and driving excessively fast on a one-way street. He expressed remorse, calling himself a coward for fleeing the scene. The jury has been informed that Gilheaney previously admitted to dangerous driving. The prosecution is alleging that some of the victims were targeted due to racist and homophobic motivations.