Willesden Murder Trial: Accused Denies Drive-By Role

A 19-year-old defendant has asserted his innocence in the fatal drive-by shooting of Michelle Sadio outside a church in Willesden, north-west London. The incident, which occurred in December 2024, saw shots fired from a passing car, resulting in Sadio's death and injuries to two others. Tahjin Sommersall informed the Old Bailey trial that he was in Wembley when the attack took place and had no knowledge of the vehicle used.

Sommersall acknowledged his involvement in drug dealing, including 'weed, crack and heroin,' at the time of the incident. He explained his use of a hi-vis jacket to impersonate a delivery driver and evade police attention. While admitting to knowing members of the north London gang "A9" from his upbringing, he vehemently denied being a member himself.

Further details revealed a past conviction for possessing a shotgun, which he claimed to have acquired after being paid to transport a package from Birmingham. Sommersall also discussed his appearances in two YouTube drill videos, stating he was invited for 'numbers' and found the experience exciting. He refuted claims of appearing with youths identified by blue bandanas, a colour linked to "A9". His background, including being removed from parental homes and excluded from school, was also presented.