OAP Beaten To Death With His Own Walking Stick

Sekai Miles Beat Bernard Fowler To Death

A drug-crazed killer, who beat an OAP to death with his own walking stick, was detained in a secure psychiatric hospital last month.

Pensioner Bernard Fowler, 87, was taking an early-morning walk to Harold Wood Underground Station just before 4.30am to pick up a copy of the free Metro newspaper.

He was targeted by paranoid schizophrenic Sekai Miles, 23, who was under the influence of synthetic drug 'Spice' and subjected to a merciless beating.

Miles, of Brent Cross, Hendon had just also threatened a member of station staff before setting his sights on the frail victim on February 27, last year.

CCTV captured him striking the pensioner nineteen times “with great force”, using the OAP's own walking stick.

He also viciously stamped on the victim's head eight times, repeatedly kicked him and gouged his eyes.

After the fatal attack he stood triumphantly, with his arms raised, over Mr Fowler's lifeless body.

The pensioner suffered a fatal head injury, including bleeding to the brain.

The prosecution at the Old Bailey accepted a not guilty plea to murder and instead Miles admitted manslaughter on the basis of diminished responsibility.

He was detained indefinitely under the Mental Health Act.

Mr Fowler, a father and grandfather was described by his family as a “kind, loving” man.

The killing was investigated by British Transport Police (BNP) who have not said either way if the offence was racially motivated.

A member of the public dialled 999 and Mr Fowler was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officers in the area quickly located Miles walking near the station with the victim's walking stick, and was arrested and taken into custody.

Senior Investigating Officer DCI Sam Painter said: “This was a horrific and brutal act of unprovoked violence which claimed the life of a much loved and respected father, brother, and grandfather.

“I know that no result can possibly make up for the pain and devastation that the tragic loss of Bernard has brought, but I hope that today’s outcome will help them find some comfort.”