John Mackey dies in fatal North London robbery-murder

John Mackey dies in fatal North London robbery-murder

Fatal North London robbery-murder death of John Mackey – Obituary

A man from North London has been charged with the robbery and murder of an 87-year-old pensioner, John Mackey, in the Manor House area, near Finsbury Park. Peter Augustine, 58, of Green Lanes, Hornsey, was charged on May 9 with killing Mackey and stealing from him during the incident.

On May 6, officers responded to a report of a robbery on Goodchild Road around 6 pm, where they found Mackey, who had been injured. He was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries two days later on May 8. His family has been informed. Augustine was apprehended on May 8 in Hornsey and remains in custody. He will appear in Willesden Magistrates’ Court on May 10. In addition to the murder charge, Augustine faces a robbery charge, with allegations that he stole a black duffle bag.

A neighbor, Sandra Murphy, described Mackey as a “beautiful, kind man” and recalled that he was a helpful and active member of the community. “He was a lovely old Irishman who would do anything for anyone,” she said, adding that Mackey was always busy, gardening with his brother and taking care of others. Murphy planned to pay tribute to him with flowers and spoke highly of Mackey’s appearance and personal style, noting he always wore a trilby hat and suit.

The area where the incident occurred, near the Spring Park playground and Redmond community center, was cordoned off by the police until May 9. Local resident Erzsebet Thomas expressed fear upon learning of Mackey’s death, calling it a “horrific incident.”

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, who is leading the investigation, described the event as a tragic loss of an innocent life and encouraged anyone with information to come forward. Assistant Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke assured locals that patrols in the area had been increased and urged residents to approach officers with concerns.

The police are continuing their investigation and have asked anyone with information to contact them, quoting Operation Cedarbirch, or to reach out anonymously to CrimeStoppers.