Bexley Penhill Road: Second man charged after Leila Young's death

Leila Young, 33, was found injured on Penhill Road just after 4pm on January 16. 

She was rushed to hospital in a critical condition but died from her injuries on the evening of January 23. 

Tony Curant, 33, of Penhill Road, was arrested on January 20, before she died, and charged with attempted murder. 

Now Richard Ray, 33, of St George’s Road in Swanley, has been charged with assisting an offender. 

Court documents state that he’s accused of facilitating travel for an offender and concealing evidence, namely three mobile phones, on January 16. 

Ray will appear at Woolwich Crown Court next week. 

On Monday (February 5) Curant appeared at the Old Bailey via video link from HMP Thameside. 

Wearing a green t-shirt, he spoke to confirm his name and date of birth. 

Prosecutor William Emyln Jones KC told the court that since Curant was charged, Ms Young died. 

He said the cause of death was stab wounds to her head and neck. 

Mr Emyln Jones indicated that the charges will be changed now that Ms Young has died. 

During the short hearing, Judge Philip Katz KC set a provisional trial date for December 2024. 

Curant will be asked to enter pleas in April. 

Floral tributes at scene of Bexley stabbing (Image: Newsquest)Candles, bouquets of flowers, and handwritten notes were left at the scene of the incident.  

One of the notes says: “So heartbreaking. I am so sorry this has happened to you.  

"Sleep tight and may you rest in peace.”  

Another one read: “Leila you will always be remembered for the loving brilliant mum you are.  

“We will never forget you.”