Man convicted of murdering 20-year-old in Clapton
Jason Romeo was fatally stabbed in February in a dispute over a girl
A 22-year-old man has been found guilty of killing Jason Romeo, 20, in Clapton earlier this year.
Raynolph Asante of Pembury Road, Hackney, was convicted at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 18th December, following a trial surrounding the fatal stabbing that took place on Tuesday, 18th February.
Detectives investigating the incident revealed that Jason was stabbed outside an address on Bodney Road following a confrontation. CCTV evidence was limited, prompting officers to expand their enquiries around vehicles at the scene and phone data, which identified Asante as a suspect.
After his photograph was released in a public appeal, Asante surrendered to police three days after Jason’s death. He was subsequently charged on Sunday, 23rd February, following further evidence discovered during house searches.
The court heard that Asante’s actions were retaliatory, stemming from an earlier violent dispute between him and Jason concerning a girl.
Jason’s family shared a heartfelt statement, saying: “The last ten months have been the most difficult of our lives but we are so relieved that today we have got justice for Jason. Jason will always be remembered, forever missed and, as I used to tell him every day, always be loved.”
Jason’s family and detective statements
Detective Superintendent Kelly Allen, who led the investigation, said: “This was a senseless act of violence that cost a young man his life. Jason Romeo was just 20 years old, and his family and friends are now left to face the devastating impact of his loss.
“During a confrontation, Raynolph Asante chose to retaliate with deadly force, gathering others to confront Jason and ultimately stabbing him in the street. There is no justification for such brutality.
“My team worked tirelessly, analysing CCTV of vehicles and pursuing a media appeal to identify the suspect. Our thoughts remain with Jason’s loved ones, and we hope today’s verdict brings them some measure of comfort.”
Four other men who stood trial for Jason’s murder were found not guilty. They are Joshua Ogedengbe, 19, of Brownhill Road, SE6; Travis Mitchell, 22, of Bodney Road, Hackney; and Rhamyah Bailey-Edwards, 21, of Williams Avenue, Walthamstow.
Asante will be sentenced on Friday, 23rd January 2026.