Shocking video footage captured the moment a homeless man pushed a stranger onto Tube tracks at Oxford Circus station. The incident occurred on February 3, when Kurdish migrant Brwa Shorsh, 24, shoved postman Tadeusz Potoczek, 61, onto the tracks. Fortunately, another commuter was able to pull Mr. Potoczek to safety just moments before a train would have hit him.
When Shorsh was arrested, he claimed that the man had given him a disrespectful look, which prompted his violent actions. According to prosecutor Sam Barker, the incident was an act of random and shocking violence that could have resulted in a tragic outcome.
Mr. Potoczek recounted the terrifying experience of being pushed onto the tracks, narrowly avoiding falling onto the electrified lines. A train was approaching the station as he struggled to maintain his balance on the tracks.
Shorsh was apprehended later that evening at Warren Street station. During questioning, he admitted to pushing Mr. Potoczek but stated that he did not intend to kill him, despite being aware of the potential danger. Shorsh claimed that he felt disrespected by the man’s supposed dirty look, which fueled his actions.
In court, Mr. Potoczek expressed his gratitude towards the individual who helped him escape from the tracks, acknowledging that he could have lost his life in the incident. He recalled feeling lucky to have escaped without any serious injuries.
Shorsh, in his defense, stated that he was not a murderer and apologized for the consequences of his actions. He admitted to seeking revenge in a moment of anger, emphasizing that he did not have any intention to cause harm.
The jury deliberated on the case and returned a verdict finding Shorsh guilty of attempted murder. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked anger and violence in public spaces. It highlights the importance of maintaining composure and seeking peaceful resolutions to conflicts, rather than resorting to dangerous and harmful actions.