Hoxton man Michael Dyra in court charged with murder of Jonathon ‘JJ’ McPhillips
From the McPhillips family album, JJ McPhillips - Credit: Archant
A man appeared in court today charged with the murder of young dad Jonathon “JJ” McPhillips in Upper Street nearly a year ago.
Michael Dyra, 22, of Hoxton, appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court.
Dyra was also charged with with grievous bodily harm with intent, violent disorder, and possession of an offensive weapon.
JJ, 28, was stabbed while out on February 25 last year. The wound left him in cardiac arrest, leading to severe brain damage. His life support machine had to be turned off three days later.
Hundreds lined the streets for his funeral in March. His mother Michelle, who runs the Green Man pub in Essex Road, told the Gazette at the time she wanted his killer to watch her bearing his coffin through the streets.
She spoke again of her heartache at Christmas, urging anyone who knew anything to come forward as she unveiled a memorial wall outside the family home in Milner Square.
Police last year made nine arrests in connection with his death, including Dyra on March 22. This is the first charge in the case.
Six of the men have been released under investigation and two have been told no further action will be taken against them.
Most Read
- 1 Siblings open community-oriented park coffee hut
- 2 Homes under the Planner: Schemes submitted or approved in Islington in June
- 3 Old Bailey: Pair enter pleas over Alex Smith murder
- 4 Karate champion helps children to build confidence through martial arts
- 5 Islington men charged after jewellery store robbery
- 6 Man charged with 1974 murder of woman found in Highbury
- 7 New Aldi on Old Street to open this month
- 8 CCTV: Woman sexually assaulted at Highbury & Islington station
- 9 'Barbecue-inspired' meat-free summer menu at cycling cafe
- 10 Husband granted right to use late wife's embryo for surrogacy
Murder cops are still appealing for witnesses to come forward. They urge anyone with information to call 020 8345 3775 or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.