An individual who lost control of his vehicle, resulting in the death of a man and damaging four other cars during a drunken spree on Christmas Day in London’s West End, has been sentenced to life in prison for murder. Anthony Gilheaney, 31, from Harlow, Essex, was convicted of murdering Aidan Chapman, 25, and attempting to murder other individuals in a series of attacks on December 25, 2024.

The incidents unfolded around 1 am when police responded to reports of a car driving recklessly on Shaftesbury Avenue, W1, striking pedestrians. Mr. Chapman sustained fatal head injuries and passed away in the hospital on New Year’s Eve. Three other pedestrians were hit by Gilheaney’s high-powered Mercedes and were taken to the hospital by emergency services. Gilheaney also physically assaulted Arif Khan and deliberately targeted Marcelo Basbus-Garcia, Miguel Waihrich, and Tyrone Itorho.

During the trial, it was revealed that Gilheaney allegedly targeted individuals based on racist and homophobic motives. He claimed he lost control of the vehicle after being attacked earlier that night and denied intending to harm anyone. Towards the end of the trial, he admitted to manslaughter and other charges but denied the more severe allegations.

On Christmas Day 2024, Gilheaney engaged in altercations with strangers, physically attacking individuals, and using racial slurs. He drove his car aggressively, causing chaos on the streets, including hitting pedestrians and engaging in confrontations.

After a police chase, Gilheaney abandoned his vehicle and attempted to flee but was eventually apprehended. He displayed remorse and admitted guilt to the authorities. He stated that his actions were influenced by intoxication and external factors.

Gilheaney has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 37 years for his violent and deadly actions.