A man has been brought before the court for the death of a mother who was killed while trying to break up a fight at the Notting Hill Carnival.
Shakiel Thibou, aged 20, was initially charged with attempting to murder Cher Maximen. However, the charge has now been changed to murder after she succumbed to her injuries on August 31.
During the court hearing at the Old Bailey on September 9, it was revealed that the 32-year-old victim was at the Notting Hill Carnival’s family day with her relatives and friends on August 25 when she was fatally stabbed in broad daylight.
Shakiel Thibou, who resides on Masbro Road in Hammersmith, appeared in court via video link from HMP Belmarsh. His brothers, Sheldon Thibou, 24, and Shaeim Thibou, 21, also appeared through video link from HMP Wandsworth, facing lesser charges.
According to the prosecutor, Alistair Richardson, a fight erupted near Cher and her group involving the Thibou brothers. Shakiel allegedly tried to stab a man with a large machete-style knife, resulting in Cher intervening and getting stabbed in the groin.
Cher suffered a cardiac arrest and was rushed to the hospital where she underwent two major surgeries. Unfortunately, her injuries were too severe, leading to her untimely death.
In addition to the murder charge, Shakiel is also accused of possessing a knife in a public place and engaging in violent disorder. Sheldon and Shaeim face charges of violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker, with Sheldon facing an extra charge of possessing a stun gun.
The three defendants have been remanded in custody until a plea and trial preparation hearing scheduled for November 28 at the same court. A provisional trial date has been set for February 24 next year.
This tragic incident at the Notting Hill Carnival has resulted in the loss of a precious life and has left a family devastated. The court proceedings will hopefully bring justice for Cher Maximen and her loved ones as they seek closure and answers to this senseless act of violence.
