Two 25-year-old men have appeared in court accused of murdering Finbar Sullivan, a 21-year-old film student, during a violent brawl at Primrose Hill in north London.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The attack occurred around 6:40 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, at the viewpoint of the popular beauty spot. Prosecutor Jennifer Newcomb described it as an eruption of extreme violence witnessed by multiple passersby, some of whom captured footage on their phones. Emergency calls reported a fight involving young males, prompting responses from police and the London Ambulance Service.
Finbar Sullivan entered the park at 6:25 p.m. and joined friends before a group allegedly surrounded him. Ernest Boateng, 25, is accused of kicking Sullivan, sweeping his legs out from under him and causing him to fall. Alexis Bidace, also 25, allegedly punched and kicked him alongside Oluwadamilola Ogunyankinnu, 27. An unnamed individual armed with a knife then stabbed Sullivan in the thigh, inflicting an unsurvivable wound. He died at the scene.
Court Proceedings
Boateng and Bidace, both from Enfield, appeared via videolink from Wandsworth prison at the Old Bailey. They face murder charges and confirmed their identities but said nothing else. Judge Angela Rafferty KC scheduled a plea hearing for July 1, with all three defendants— including Ogunyankinnu—expected to attend. A provisional trial date is set for April 5 next year, and the men remain in custody.
Victim’s Background and Family Grief
Sullivan, known as Fin to friends, studied at the London Screen Academy. His father, Chris Sullivan, revealed that his son visited Primrose Hill to test a new birthday camera. “I can’t believe it. He was the most beautiful, lovely, outgoing, loving boy,” Chris Sullivan said. “He was just a really lovely person. Why he was targeted, we have no idea. He was just a little groovy 21-year-old who loved movies and making films. He didn’t drink, he didn’t smoke, he didn’t go out. He’d stay at home editing his films six nights a week. He wanted to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps and be a cameraman.”
Chris Sullivan added that Finbar had recently filmed a video for Joseph Corre, son of Vivienne Westwood, and they planned to start a company together. He was set to create his showreel that day.
Additional Charges and Police Update
Khalid Abdulqadir, 18, from Camden, faces separate charges related to the incident: grievous bodily harm with intent against another victim, violent disorder, and knife possession.
Detective Inspector Andy Griffin, leading the investigation, stated: “My thoughts remain with Finbar’s family who continue to receive support from specialist officers at this unimaginably difficult time. Although we have made two arrests, my officers continue to work around the clock to trace everyone involved. I’d like to thank the public who have come forward with information so far. If you are yet to speak to us, or share footage from Tuesday relating to this incident, please do not hesitate to get in touch.”
Police maintain an increased presence in Primrose Hill and nearby areas.
