Leon Douglas convicted of murder after killing Khalid Marchoud in Hendon

Leon Douglas of Watford Way, Hendon, was found guilty of murder at Harrow Crown Court on 10 November 2026. The verdict relates to a stabbing that took place on 19 December 2026 at a flat in Tollgate Gardens. The victim, 40‑year‑old Khalid Marchoud, died at St Mary’s Hospital after being found outside the property with multiple stab wounds.

Background to the attack

Witnesses told police that Douglas arrived at the flat he once shared with a former housemate on the evening of 19 December. After being let inside, he became aggressive, retrieved a knife and attacked Marchoud, a man he did not know. He pursued the victim out of the flat before stabbing him. Police located the victim outside the building and took him to St Mary’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead later that night.

Attempts to evade police

Detective Inspector Sarah Philippe, who led the investigation, said Douglas tried to avoid detection by climbing onto a roof and moving towards Kilburn High Road. Over the following days he shaved his beard, dyed his hair red and disposed of the clothing he wore during the attack. On 23 December 2026 officers found him at an address in Cricklewood and placed him under arrest.

Court proceedings and verdict

The case went to trial at Harrow Crown Court after Douglas was charged with murder on 24 December 2026. A nine‑day trial examined forensic evidence, witness statements and the steps Douglas took to conceal his identity. The jury returned a guilty verdict on 10 November 2026. The judge noted the pre‑meditated nature of the attack and the lengths taken to evade capture.

Sentencing has not yet been announced. Douglas remains in custody pending a sentencing hearing, which is expected to be scheduled in the coming weeks. Victim support services have been offered to Marchoud’s family, and the Metropolitan Police continue to review the case for any further investigative leads.