Mother Recounts Fatal Stabbing of Son in London Barber Shop
Bash Kehinde shares her grief after son Josh McKay was killed by a former friend.
1Tragic Incident in Leyton
In July 2024, 33-year-old businessman Josh McKay was fatally stabbed at a barber shop in Leyton, East London. The attack occurred in the presence of his young son, leaving the family devastated. The perpetrator, identified as rapper Renai Belle, was a former friend of the victim, turning a routine day into tragedy.
2Mother's Immediate Response
Bash Kehinde, Josh’s mother, rushed to the scene after receiving a distressing phone call about the incident. Upon arrival, she witnessed her son lying on the floor and desperately pleaded for him to wake up. She describes the experience as a living nightmare that fundamentally altered her life and sense of reality.
3Victim's Community Impact
Josh McKay was widely recognized for his community work, specifically running a company that assisted individuals transitioning out of care. Known affectionately as a real-life Batman, he was remembered by 600 attendees at his memorial service. His mother emphasizes that he was a funny, generous person who always made time for others.
4Legal Outcome for Perpetrator
The assailant, Renai Belle, faced justice at the Old Bailey in July 2025. He was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Josh McKay. The court mandated that Belle must serve a minimum term of 28 years behind bars before he can be considered for any potential release from his sentence.
5Documenting the Hidden Struggle
Bash Kehinde, who has a professional background in psychology and previously supported victims of the Grenfell fire, authored a book titled Finding Me – Unfrozen. Released on November 6, which would have been Josh’s 36th birthday, the book explores the internal struggle of grieving while attempting to maintain a semblance of normalcy.
6Message Against Knife Crime
Addressing the rising issue of knife violence, Kehinde urged individuals to reconsider carrying weapons. She warned that those who believe they are carrying knives for self-defense often expose themselves to greater danger. She poignantly reminded potential offenders that their own mothers could receive the same devastating call she once had to endure.
7Psychological Toll of Grief
Kehinde notes that society often misinterprets the ability to function as a sign of recovery. She explains that managing a business or holding conversations requires immense effort for those suffering from profound loss. By sharing her story, she aims to ensure her son is remembered for his life, not just headlines.
8Reflecting on Lasting Consequences
The murder of Josh McKay highlights the devastating ripple effects of interpersonal violence on families and communities. Beyond the legal resolution, the emotional trauma remains a permanent fixture for those left behind. Kehinde’s public advocacy serves as a stark reminder of the human cost behind every statistic reported in London news.
Original article: Metro UK — Mother Recounts Fatal Stabbing of Son in London Barber Shop