‘Thuggish violence’: Man convicted of killing neighbour, 74, in row over front gate

A man has been convicted of killing his 74-year-old neighbour in a row over shutting a gate.

Yesterday a jury found Trevor Gocan, 57, of Odhams Walk, Covent Garden, guilty of manslaughter over the killing of James O’Neill, at Southwark Crown Court. 

The assault occurred in Odhams Walk, close to both men’s homes, on October 6, 2024. 

Mr O’Neil – known as ‘Jim’ – died in hospital almost a fortnight later, on October 21.

Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, who led the investigation, said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr O’Neill, who lost a loved one in shocking circumstances.

“The killer acted disgracefully, punching and kicking his victim in full view of members of the public – among them children – on a busy Sunday morning.

“The jury’s verdict shows that casual, thuggish violence will not be tolerated on London’s streets. There was absolutely no excuse for Gocan’s conduct.”

On October 6, 2024, cops were called at around noon to reports of a man being assaulted in Odhams Walk.

Police attended the scene alongside London Ambulance Service crews who treated Mr O’Neill for multiple injuries. 

He was taken to hospital, where doctors established he was suffering from a bleed on the brain.

Cops were informed that the assailant had gone into a nearby house. There they found and arrested Gocan, who turned out to be a resident at the address.

A post-mortem examination found that Mr O’Neill’s death was caused by complications from a traumatic brain injury and rib injuries resulting from the assault.

At interview, the defendant gave no comment. In court, he claimed he acted in self-defence when he attacked Mr O’Neill, following a row over the front gate.

Gocan has been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing at Southwark Crown Court on June 26.

Pictured top: James O’Neill, who died from a traumatic brain injury after being assaulted (Picture: The Met)