Dalston teenager detained six years for manslaughter of footballer friend

Michael Ematuwo, 14, accidentally killed the 17 year old Jahmal Mason-Blair while trying to protect him from another teenager. While waving a flick knife to scare his opponent, Ematuwo stabbed Mason-Blair in the neck.

Mason-Blair was a keen footballer and played for Borehamwood Football Club. He also had trials for Reading, Tottenham and Watford.

Following his death Borehamwood FC played a memorial game with Crystal Palace.

In defence of Ematuwo, Baroness Mallalieu QC, said the manslaughter happened as a result of fear not malice or intent. She said, "This is a young man who has lost a friend."

However Judge Paul Worsley condemned Ematuwo saying, "It was the carrying of a knife which led to the death of Jahmal.

"You have destroyed the life of his family. Jahmal was the bright star in the lives of his family.

"He was a decent, popular boy and a talented footballer. He was a boy who met his death trying to stop violence, not causing it."