A man has been found guilty of murdering a Salisbury dad in front of his toddler.
20-year-old Tsvetomir Genov was with his 16-month-old son when he was stabbed to death by Maurice Jones in an unprovoked attack in broad daylight.
The 25-year-old killer had confronted the victim – who is known as TG – over issues relating to his son and former partner in Gainsborough Close, Bemerton Heath.
During the incident, at around midday on 22 August last year, TG was walking his son in a pushchair back to his son’s mother’s house when he was subjected to a sustained and violent assault.
TG sustained eight stab wounds, and despite the best efforts of emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Jones fled from the scene, discarding the knife and his trousers. Thanks to key witnesses and intelligence from members of the public, he was swiftly arrested and taken to custody.
After being charged with murder and possession of a bladed article, he pleaded not guilty.
Following a two-week-long trial at Winchester Crown Court, Jones, of Gainsborough Close, Bemerton Heath, was today (Friday) convicted of murder and possession of a bladed article.
Jones had claimed to have only taken a knife for his own protection and then used it out of fear, claiming to have lost control of himself. This was dismissed by the jury.
He has been remanded into custody ahead of sentencing at Salisbury Crown Court on 18 July.
Speaking after the verdict, Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker said: “Firstly, I’d like to pay tribute to TG’s family for the dignified manner in which they have conducted themselves at court, having to hear the horrendous details of their son’s murder whilst dealing with their unimaginable loss.
“I’d also like to thank the local community for the support they gave to the investigation team. Their support following the incident and during the investigation enabled us to secure a quick arrest, as well as the subsequent conviction.
“Sadly, this is another murder involving the use of a knife.
“The defendant purposely armed himself with a knife and left the address he was in to confront the victim before launching into a violent, unprovoked attack, ignoring efforts to stop him.
“TG was simply walking his son back to his mother’s address and did not present any danger to anyone.
“This was a violent assault in a public place and the defendant has not shown any true remorse for his actions.
“I’m pleased the jury has dismissed his defence and have found him guilty of TG’s murder.
“My condolences go out to TG’s family and friends and we hope this verdict will give them some comfort at such a difficult time.”
