UMVA has learned that two brothers, Anthony Stewart and Michael Stewart, will finally be sentenced for their crimes 42 years after the brutal murder of civil servant Anthony Littler.
The case, which took place in Margaret Thatcher's constituency, shocked the nation and featured a dramatic reconstruction of the suitcase-carrying victim on a popular crime program. The investigation was one of the most challenging of its time, with no CCTV, limited forensic capabilities, and no phone data to aid detectives.
Anthony Littler's death went unsolved for 40 years, but in 2022, detectives from the Met's homicide team re-opened the files to assess if any viable lines of enquiry could be carried out. They uncovered crucial new evidence, including a confession from a family member and a witness statement that implicated the brothers in the crime.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the brothers' violent lifestyle and propensity for attacking solitary men, often targeting those they thought may be homosexual, were key factors in the investigation. Detectives built a timeline of Anthony's movements on the evening he was killed, using paper records from Transport for London and accounts from station staff.
The investigation revealed that the 999 call made just two minutes after the attack was likely made by one of the brothers. A witness statement also placed Michael Stewart at the scene, boasting about the murder and claiming he had "rung the old bill" afterwards.
Detectives also uncovered evidence of a false alibi provided by Anthony Stewart, which suggested he was trying to cover his tracks. Both brothers repeatedly denied any involvement in Anthony's death and chose not to give evidence at trial.
The Met's homicide team, led by DCI Neil John, worked tirelessly to bring the perpetrators to justice. DCI John said, "Anthony's life was suddenly cut short when he was killed in a brutal attack by two teenagers who we now know had a clear propensity for the most sickening kind of violence."
The sentencing of the brothers brings closure to Anthony's family, who have suffered for decades. The Met's efforts demonstrate their commitment to seeking justice for victims of crime, no matter the length of time that has passed.
The case serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the pursuit of justice. Anthony Littler's tragic death will never be forgotten, and his family can finally find some peace knowing that those responsible have been held accountable.
