Man Accused of Murder After Fatal Bowling Alley Stabbing

Ellis Anim-Annor stands accused of fatally stabbing Lorik Abazi outside a Croydon bowling alley on February 15. The Old Bailey heard that Mr Abazi, 22, died from a stab wound to the heart. Two other individuals also sustained slash or stab injuries during the incident. Anim-Annor, 29, denies murder and wounding with intent, as reported by MyLondon.

Prosecution's Account of Events

Prosecutor Anthony Orchard KC told the court that both Mr Abazi's group and the defendant, along with his girlfriend Ines Bernado, were at Tenpin Croydon Bowling Alley on Valentine's Day. The groups left the venue around 1am. It is alleged that Anim-Annor later returned to the Valley Retail Park car park, where he confronted Mr Abazi's party. Mr Orchard suggested the confrontation may have stemmed from a comment made by someone in Mr Abazi's group regarding Ms Bernado's appearance. The prosecution claims Anim-Annor armed himself with a knife before the fight, during which Mr Abazi was stabbed. Emergency services were called at 1:19am. Mr Abazi was taken to Croydon University Hospital, where he died at 2:01am. The other injured men were treated and taken to St George's Hospital in Tooting, according to MyLondon.

Family Tribute

In a statement shared by MyLondon, Lorik Abazi's family described him as "a caring, smart young man with a good sense of humour and his whole future ahead of him." They expressed their devastation at his loss, stating, "A light has gone out in our lives, and we are devastated beyond words by his loss." The family requested privacy.

Legal Proceedings

Ellis Anim-Annor, who is from Bromley, south London, has pleaded not guilty to the charges. The trial at the Old Bailey is ongoing.