Killer dyed his hair red and shaved beard to evade police after stabbing stranger

A murderer dyed his hair red and shave off his beard to evade a police manhunt after stabbing a stranger outside his flat in north London.

Leon Douglas changed his appearance in an effort to avoid detection after fatally wounding Khalid Marchoud with a kitchen knife.

Mr Marchoud, 40, was found collapsed outside a ninth-floor apartment on Tollgate Gardens in Maida Vale on December 19 last year.

He was taken to St Mary’s hospital in Paddington but was declared dead later that evening.

Witnesses recalled how Douglas, 45, had arrived at the block of flats to visit a former housemate but became involved in an altercation after yelling through Mr Marchoud’s letterbox, demanding to be granted entry.

After he was let in, Douglas armed himself with a knife from the kitchen and pursued Mr Marchoud out of the flat before stabbing him.

He then made an escape by throwing the knife at a window before climbing out of the building onto the roof.

The killer was then seen walking towards Kilburn High Road. He then changed his clothes before spending the evening with friends at a pub.

Douglas discarded all the clothes he had worn during the incident before dying his hair and shaving his beard as police launched a search.

He was nonetheless tracked to an address in Cricklewood where he was arrested by officers four days later, despite again trying to escape via a rear ground floor window.

The knifeman was taken into custody and charged with murder on Christmas Eve last year.

Following a nine-day trial at Harrow Crown Court, he was found guilty on Tuesday. He is to be sentenced at a later date.

DI Sarah Philippe said: ‘This was a senseless and brutal act of violence which resulted in the tragic death of Khalid Marchoud. Our thoughts remain with Khalid’s family and loved ones, who continue to live with the devastating consequences of Douglas’ actions.

‘I would like to thank the witnesses who came forward and supported our investigation. Their assistance was invaluable in helping us build the case that secured this conviction.

‘Today’s verdict reflects the strength of evidence presented to the court and demonstrates our determination to pursue those responsible for serious violence and bring them to justice.’

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