Key Points:
- Sekai Miles, 23, from Hendon, sentenced to indefinite hospital order for killing Bernard Fowler in Harold Wood.
- Miles pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility in January 2025.
- Bernard Fowler, 87, described as a “kind, loving” family man, was attacked outside Harold Wood Underground station.
- The unprovoked assault took place in the early hours of 27 February 2024 while Bernard was out collecting his morning paper.
- He was pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts from paramedics.
- Miles was found nearby with Fowler’s walking stick and arrested at the scene.
- British Transport Police led the investigation.
- DCI Sam Painter described the act as “horrific and brutal” and praised the family’s strength.
Sekai Miles, 23, from Brent Cross, Hendon, has been sentenced to an indefinite hospital order after admitting to killing 87-year-old Bernard Fowler in a brutal and unprovoked assault. The sentencing took place at the Old Bailey on Friday, 4 April 2025, following his earlier guilty plea to manslaughter by diminished responsibility on 13 January.
Miles was detained under the Mental Health Act following psychiatric assessments, which confirmed he required long-term treatment in a secure facility rather than imprisonment.
What happened to Bernard Fowler?
Bernard Fowler, a beloved father, brother and grandfather, was killed just before 4.30am on 27 February 2024. He had left his home in Harold Wood to collect his morning newspaper when he was violently attacked outside Harold Wood Underground station.
According to British Transport Police, Fowler was assaulted repeatedly and left injured at the scene. A concerned member of the public discovered him and called 999. Despite the rapid arrival of police and London Ambulance Service crews, Bernard was pronounced dead at the scene.
How was the attacker arrested?
Shortly after the incident, officers patrolling the area spotted Sekai Miles walking near the station. He was in possession of Bernard’s walking stick. Officers arrested him on the spot and transported him to custody. He was later charged with Bernard’s death, leading to the court proceedings.
What did police say about the attack?
DCI Sam Painter, Senior Investigating Officer at British Transport Police, condemned the killing as a “horrific and brutal act of unprovoked violence”. He added:
“This was a horrific and brutal act of unprovoked violence which claimed the life of a much-loved and respected father, brother, and grandfather.
I know that no result can possibly make up for the pain and devastation that the tragic loss of Bernard has brought, but I hope that today’s outcome will help them find some comfort.”
Who was Bernard Fowler?
According to his family, Bernard Fowler was a kind and loving man who had dedicated much of his life to supporting the local community. His death has left a deep void among family members, friends, and residents in the Havering area. Many have described him as a pillar of the neighbourhood, well-known and well-liked by all.
The court recognised Bernard’s long-standing contributions and the senseless nature of his death, while also acknowledging the tragic circumstances that led to the assault.
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