A man deemed “dangerous” has been sentenced to life in prison for fatally stabbing his former partner, whom he had been stalking using a tracking device concealed in their young daughter’s scooter.
Yurii Muzyka, aged 34, violated a non-molestation order as he unlawfully entered the residence of 29-year-old Halyna Hoisan in Greenwich, south London, on August 27. Despite the presence of their three-year-old child, Muzyka viciously stabbed Hoisan multiple times before capturing images of her as she lay dying. He then turned the knife on himself after a man whom Hoisan was with on a second date alerted the authorities.
After a trial at the Old Bailey, Muzyka, a Ukrainian national residing in New Malden, south London, was convicted of murder and blade possession. The presiding judge, Simon Mayo KC, handed down a life sentence with a minimum term of 30 years, describing the attack as premeditated and relentless against a beloved mother in her own home.
The court heard that Muzyka deliberately purchased a knife shortly before the incident, researching vulnerable body areas online, including the chest. Judge Mayo KC emphasized Muzyka’s intent to kill Hoisan, depriving her young daughter of a mother just before her fourth birthday. The judge pointed out the grave nature of Muzyka’s actions, driven by jealousy, resentment, and a desire for control even after the relationship had ended.
Muzyka was condemned for stealthily arming himself with a knife and chisel to enter his ex-partner’s home, with the judge condemning the act of photographing Hoisan’s final moments as demeaning and intrusive, causing immeasurable distress to her family.
The court proceedings detailed Hoisan’s tumultuous relationship with Muzyka, with reports of violence, harassment, and stalking leading to police involvement. Despite relocating to Greenwich to escape Muzyka, Hoisan still faced threats and harassment, including a chilling phone call to her mother in Poland where Muzyka threatened her life. Just a week before the tragic murder, Hoisan obtained a non-molestation order against Muzyka.
On the day of the fatal attack, Muzyka acquired a knife and recorded videos expressing distress and accusations towards his former partner. The court learned that Hoisan was beginning a new relationship and was on a date when Muzyka intruded and committed the violent act.
Investigators discovered Muzyka’s obsession with spyware, masks, knives, and human anatomy through evidence on his mobile phone, further solidifying his premeditated motives. Despite denying murder and claiming loss of control, the jury rejected Muzyka’s defense.
During the sentencing phase, Hoisan’s mother emotionally addressed Muzyka in court, expressing the profound impact her daughter’s death had on her. Muzyka appeared remorseful, wiping away tears as he stood trial.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Franklin of Scotland Yard condemned the heinous act, emphasizing the devastating loss inflicted by Muzyka’s actions. He praised the efforts of detectives in bringing Muzyka to justice, highlighting the Metropolitan Police’s dedication to combating violence against women and ensuring dangerous individuals are held accountable.