Dellan Charles, 23, shouted “die, die, die” during the “brutal” daylight attack in Hayes in west London, before calmly leaving the scene.
He was told he will serve a minimum of 23 years in jail at his sentencing today (March 17) at Kingston Crown Court.
On the evening of May 18, 2023, Charles chased Sean O’Neill after an argument between two rival groups in Reynolds Road – a quiet residential street – in broad daylight.
After cornering him, Charles used two knives to stab Sean multiple times.
During the trial, the court heard how Charles shouted “die, die, die” during the attack.
CCTV footage showed Charles calmly leaving the scene after the killing, before escaping by through nearby leafy suburban gardens.
The jury heard how Charles disposed of a knife at a nearby address, before concocting a calculated plan to flee the area.
He was not heard from for nearly a year.
Over the course of the next ten months, detectives pieced together the course of events alongside an extensive manhunt before Charles was eventually tracked down in Coventry on March 27, 2024.
Detective Inspector Kevin Martin, who led the investigation for Specialist Crime South, said:
“Myself and the team once again pay tribute to Sean’s family who, throughout this distressing time, have shown real strength and togetherness.
“Heartbreakingly, nothing will ever bring Sean back, but today, the man responsible for taking him away from his much-loved family has been forced to face the reality of his malicious actions.”
In a statement previously provided by Sean’s family, they added: “We really appreciate the efforts of the Metropolitan Police and the Crown Prosecution Service in bringing about justice, as well as the support we have received throughout this difficult process.
“Sean will be remembered for his big heart, charming smile and fun-loving personality. He is incredibly loved by us all and we miss him every day.”
