Man attacked and killed while homeless near King's Cross station

In the early hours of 10 August, in central London, a 51-year-old homeless man named Anthony Marks was severely assaulted while seeking refuge in a bin shed on Cromer Street, close to King's Cross St Pancras station. This brutal attack left him in critical condition, leading to his death on 25 September. Following an investigation, authorities arrested 35-year-old Harry Gittins from Camden on 6 December and charged him with murder. In addition to Gittins, two other teenagers, a 17-year-old girl from Brixton and a 17-year-old boy from Dagenham, have also been charged with murder, although their identities have been withheld due to their age. The police conducted extensive inquiries into the circumstances surrounding Marks's death, which drew significant public attention due to the vulnerability of the victim and the violent nature of the crime. The attack prompted discussions about the safety of homeless individuals in urban environments, with many advocating for increased support and protective measures for those living on the streets. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case has highlighted issues of homelessness and safety in major cities, fueling concerns among local communities about the welfare of vulnerable populations. The forthcoming court appearances, including that of Gittins at Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court, will likely bring further scrutiny to not only the crime itself but also the systemic issues that contribute to such tragic events. Efforts by charities and organizations working with the homeless have intensified in response to this incident, with calls for more resources and interventions aimed at protecting individuals from acts of violence. The public reaction has been mixed, with some expressing outrage at the crime and others advocating for a deeper understanding of the factors leading to homelessness and associated risks.