Christmas Day in London descended into chaos as a driver, later identified as Anthony Gilheaney, allegedly unleashed a series of terrifying attacks on unsuspecting pedestrians. CCTV footage released by police paints a harrowing picture of a vehicle careening wildly through the streets, moments before tragedy struck.
Ayyat Mahmood was walking with his family on Great Windmill Street when he encountered Gilheaney standing in the road, shirtless and shouting, seemingly challenging anyone who passed. The scene quickly escalated from unsettling to terrifying as Gilheaney’s car began to move with alarming speed and unpredictability.
Mahmood described the vehicle as driving “fastly and randomly,” forcing pedestrians to scramble for safety. He witnessed Gilheaney strike one man with such force that the victim was thrown through the air – a chilling moment that underscored the escalating danger.
The situation took an even more sinister turn when Gilheaney allegedly reversed his car directly towards Mahmood and his family, including a three-year-old child in a pram. Mahmood bravely confronted the driver, pleading with him about the baby, only to be met with further aggression.
Gilheaney reportedly attempted to strike the child, his actions fueled by a disturbing disregard for human life. Mahmood quickly ushered his family away, fleeing to safety as the driver continued his rampage.
The trail of destruction continued on Shaftesbury Avenue, where Aidan Chapman, 25, and Tyrone Itorho were struck while crossing the road. Chapman suffered devastating brain injuries and tragically died in hospital on New Year’s Eve.
The prosecution alleges that some of the victims were deliberately targeted due to their race and sexual orientation, adding a layer of hate to the already horrific events. Other individuals, including Marcelo Basbus-Garcia and Miguel Waihrich, were also injured in the series of attacks.
Gilheaney faces a multitude of charges, including murder, attempted murder, and grievous bodily harm. He has already admitted to dangerous driving, but maintains his innocence regarding the more serious accusations. The trial is ongoing, seeking to unravel the full extent of this shocking Christmas Day tragedy.
