Two teens jailed for eight years over Southwark stabbing death

Two teenagers have received a combined eight-year prison sentence for their involvement in the death of 17-year-old Yeray Sanchez Morales in Southwark. The fatal incident occurred on Old Kent Road on the evening of August 27, 2025.

Yeray and a friend were attacked by a group of young men while sitting outside a McDonald's restaurant. The court heard that both teenagers were stabbed, and Yeray was also subjected to kicks and blows from a bottle. He sustained nine wounds to his neck and chest and later died in hospital.

Sentencing Details

Andres Tapia Londono, aged 18, of Willan Road, Haringey, was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to four years imprisonment. Christhofer Jesus Vasquez, also 18, of Platts Road, Enfield, was found guilty of manslaughter and possession of a bladed article. He received a four-year sentence for manslaughter and a concurrent one-year sentence for the weapons offence.

Four other teenagers and an adult male were also sentenced for violent offences linked to the attack. Their penalties included community orders, a 16-month sentence, and a 12-month youth rehabilitation order. All individuals involved were acquitted of murder.

Investigation and Victim Impact

The investigation into Yeray's death involved a comprehensive review of evidence. Detectives utilised mobile phone footage, CCTV recordings, social media images, voice notes, and forensic evidence to identify those responsible. DNA found on a bottle was a key piece of forensic evidence linking one individual to the assault.

Detective Sergeant Debbie Barge, who led the inquiry, stated that Yeray was a young person with his entire future ahead of him, whose life was tragically ended by an act of violence that caused widespread shock.

Yeray's mother, Elena Morales, described her son as a sensitive, happy, polite, and generous individual with a unique ability to connect with others and a pervasive kindness. She added that his death has left a permanent and deep wound on their family and his friends.