A murder suspect who stabbed a record label boss to death with a Swiss army knife told a court it was “pure chance” he pulled out a blade and not a corkscrew.
Anthony Allen, 34, claims he acted in self defence when he hit out at Crispin Siddon after being punched to the ground in Cutz Barbers, Craven Park Road, Harlesden, on May 5.
A jury heard CCTV cameras caught Allen unfolding the blade as he got to his feet before lashing out five times at Mr Siddon in front of staff and customers.
Mr Siddon, a rapper known as Skeng, suffered a fatal stab wound to the left lung and heart. He died in hospital.
Allen told the Old Bailey he did not realise Mr Siddon, 34, had been seriously injured hearing about his death days later.
He said: “I felt devastated. I couldn’t come to terms with the fact I caused such injuries. I accept now I caused his death.
“I was just trying to defend myself so I wouldn’t have to go through the ordeal any longer. It was humiliating. I was furious at being knocked over.”
Allen admitted his police statement did not mention the knife he now claims he found on the shop’s floor.
He said: “It was a Swiss army knife. I wasn’t trying to open a particular tool. I just wanted to hit him somewhere.
“There was a corkscrew, a screwdriver. It was pure chance it was a knife blade. I wasn’t aware there was stabbing going on. As far as I am aware I defended myself throughout.”
Prosecutor Duncan Atkinson claimed Allen caused the injuries “in anger” rather than in self defence.
Allen, of Tillet Close, Neasden, denies murder and possessing a knife.
The jury has retired to consider its verdict.
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