A man described as “dangerous” has been sentenced to life in prison for fatally stabbing his former partner after tracking her with a hidden device in their child’s scooter.
Yurii Muzyka, aged 34, violated a non-molestation order when he forcibly entered the residence of 29-year-old Halyna Hoisan in Greenwich, South London, on August 27, where he proceeded to stab her multiple times in the chest in the presence of their three-year-old daughter. Following the attack, he took photos of the victim before inflicting a self-harm wound upon himself.
After a trial at the Old Bailey, Muzyka, a Ukrainian citizen residing in New Malden, South London, was convicted of murder and possession of a blade. The presiding judge, Simon Mayo KC, sentenced him to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 30 years, characterizing the assault as a calculated and prolonged act against a beloved mother in her own home.
The judge highlighted Muzyka’s premeditated actions, including purchasing a knife shortly before the attack, conducting internet searches on vulnerable body areas, and stabbing the victim with intent to kill. The court learned that the victim, known as Lina, had a tumultuous relationship with Muzyka, involving reports of violence, harassment, and stalking, culminating in her efforts to escape his control by moving to Greenwich.
Despite securing a non-molestation order against Muzyka and discovering a tracking device in her daughter’s scooter, Ms. Hoisan fell victim to the fatal assault as Muzyka exhibited escalating jealousy and control issues. The court revealed Muzyka’s disturbing online activities, which included an obsession with spyware, masks, knives, and human anatomy.
During the trial, emotional statements were made by the victim’s mother, expressing profound grief over the loss of her daughter. Muzyka, displaying remorse, was observed wiping away tears in court. Detective Chief Inspector Mark Franklin condemned the act as a cruel crime that deprived a child of her mother and emphasized the authorities’ dedication to prosecuting perpetrators of violence against women.