Michel Becouarn

Michel Becouarn was stabbed to death with his own samurai sword.

His 24-year-old son was tried for his murder at the Old Bailey but was found not guilty.

It was claimed that his son had killed him with the sword during a drunken argument.  They had been out drinking together during the day, but Michel Becouarn's son said that he had been out walking the dog when the attack took place after they had a row and Michel Becouarn kicked him out.

It was said that the police had been informed of the murder by an anonymous phone call to them, but it was determined that it had been Michel Becouarn's son that had made the call. Michel Becouarn's son said that he had found his father dead on the bedroom floor when he got back and thought that he would get into trouble and so went out and made the call to the police, pretending to be a neighbour.

However, Michel Becouarn's son was arrested when he returned home.

Michel Becouarn had been attacked from behind with the sword.

The sword was an ornamental samurai sword and it was said that one of the blows had been made with such force that it had gone right through his back and out through his chest.

Michel Becouarn had kept the sword for his own protection.

Following the son's acquittal, the police said that there were no other lines of enquiry and as far as they were concerned the case was closed unless any further information came to light.

Michel Becouarn and his son had both been street traders.