James Owusu-Agyekum murder: Business student killed as gunmen fired through front door was victim of mistaken identity, police say

Mistaken identity: James Owusu-Agyekum was killed when gunmen fired through his front door
Justin Davenport12 January 2018
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A business student killed when gunmen fired a volley of shots through his front door was a victim of suspected mistaken identity, police said today.

James Owusu-Agyekum, 22, died from four bullet wounds to his back and one to his arm after two gunmen walked past his open door in Harlesden and opened fire.

As he lay dying in the arms of his mother, he told her: “Mum, I haven’t done anything to anyone ... I don’t like trouble.”

Today, more than a year on from his murder, detectives and his family renewed an appeal for information and released images of the two young suspects on pedal cycles.

Police believe a feud between two rival gangs in Harlesden led to the shooting of the “gentle giant” who worked for a west London shipping company to fund his studies.

A £20,000 reward is on offer for information leading to the conviction of his killers.

CCTV image of two suspects wanted over the death of James Owusu-Agyekum

An inquest yesterday heard that Mr Owusu-Agyekum was shot on November 2, 2016, by one of two suspects who then fled to the nearby Stonebridge Estate on bicycles.

Police described the victim as a popular young man from a devout Christian family, who had recently taken time out from his studies to care for his disabled mother.

Detectives said it was “likely James had been mistaken for someone else”.

Detective Chief Inspector Dave Bolton, leading the investigation, said: “James’s family has lived with the torment of knowing his killer is still free for more than a year now. I am doing everything I can to change that.

“We are releasing images of two suspects we would like to speak to in connection with our investigation.

“I would urge anyone who recognises these people to contact us; all information will be handled in strictest confidence and could be key in helping to bring a small level of comfort to James’s family.”

In a brief statement released by police his family said: “James has senselessly been taken from his family and friends. His loss has left sorrow in all our hearts.

“We appeal to anyone who has any information to pass this to police or anonymously to Crimestoppers.”

Anyone with information should call 020 8785 8244 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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