URGENT UPDATE: A driver has been found guilty of murder following a shocking Christmas Day car rampage in London’s West End. Anthony Gilheaney, aged 31, was convicted of murdering Aidan Chapman, 25, during a violent spree that left several others injured.
The conviction was handed down by a jury at the Old Bailey on January 26, 2025, after a trial revealed the harrowing details of Gilheaney’s actions in the early hours of December 25, 2024. Gilheaney’s rampage began shortly after he left a nightclub, where he had been drinking heavily. He drove his high-powered Mercedes recklessly, targeting pedestrians and causing chaos in the streets.
His violent outburst resulted in the death of Chapman, who suffered catastrophic brain injuries after being struck by the vehicle. Chapman tragically succumbed to his injuries on New Year’s Eve. The court heard that Gilheaney also targeted others, including Arif Khan, whom he physically assaulted after using a racial slur, and Marcelo Basbus-Garcia and Miguel Waihrich, who were simply walking together after midnight mass.
Witnesses described the scene as terrifying, with pedestrians fleeing in panic as Gilheaney drove onto sidewalks and aggressively pursued individuals. Eyewitness footage captured Gilheaney’s erratic driving, which included ramming into an Uber driver’s vehicle before continuing his spree.
During the trial, Gilheaney attempted to defend his actions by claiming he was not in control of his vehicle due to an earlier altercation. However, the jury found him guilty of not only murder but also attempted murder and wounding with intent related to the attacks on others. He was acquitted of attempting to murder Waihrich but was convicted of causing him grievous bodily harm.
Following the incident, police pursued Gilheaney as he fled the scene and later found him unconscious in Lincoln’s Inn Fields. Reports indicate that he expressed remorse, telling officers, “I am sorry for everything I have ever done. I will admit to everything. I am guilty.”
Gilheaney’s history of dangerous driving and lack of a valid driving license further complicated his case. He admitted to drinking heavily that night and claimed his vape had been spiked with cannabis.
The court has scheduled Gilheaney’s sentencing for January 30, 2025. This case underscores the severe consequences of reckless behavior and the tragic loss of life due to impaired driving. As the community mourns the loss of Aidan Chapman, this verdict serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by intoxicated individuals behind the wheel.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
