A woman has been convicted of murder after stabbing a woman at a child's birthday party. Hope Rowe, 33, of Piazza Walk, , attacked Charlotte Lawlor, 31, with a knife at a property in on Sunday, September 15, 2024.
The stabbing was witnessed by some of Ms Lawlor's family, children and guests at the party. On Friday, June 13, 2025, a jury at Inner London Crown Court found Rowe guilty of murder. Witness testimony and phone evidence - including an incriminating voicemail - were used by investigators to bring the defendant to justice. She was convicted in the absence of a murder weapon.
Detective Sergeant Dean Musgrove, from the Met Police's Specialist Crime North unit, said: "Hope Rowe launched a brutal attack on Charlotte Lawlor at what should have been a joyous occasion.
"Our thoughts are with the victim's family and friends, who will have to contend not only with the loss of a loved one, but with the trauma of having witnessed the killing.
"As if the killing was not senseless enough, Rowe then tried to deceive investigators, disposing of the knife before turning herself in. It still has not been found to this day, and both Rowe and her partner were incriminated by a voicemail accidentally recorded on Rowe's phone."
In a statement, the victim's parents said: "We are happy with the verdict. We would like to thank the jury for their attention during the trial.
"The family will never get over the loss and murder of Charlotte. It has destroyed us, leaving a gaping hole. Charlotte's son, Riley, has been left without a mum, and siblings without their older sister and best friend.
"Charlotte brought light to everyone's life."
Rowe's partner at the time was also found guilty of perverting the course of justice.
Holder encouraged Rowe not to surrender to the police and helped her dispose of the murder weapon.
His vehicle was intercepted by armed police just over an hour after they were called to the scene in Tower Hamlets.
He told them that Rowe had jumped out of the vehicle shortly after leaving the crime scene, and claimed he had no knowledge of her location.
Rowe later attended Bethnal Green Police Station, where she was arrested and gave a "no comment" interview.
Rowe and Holder will be sentenced an Inner London Crown Court on Wednesday, 9 July.
-
Minnesota politician shooting suspect pictured as cops find list of names
-
Pigeon Fest 2025: New Yorkers flock to absurd pigeon pageant with important ecological message
-
When you can get £2,500 driving fine and ban 'for not even starting engine'
-
Goa's 'taxi mafia': What tourists need to know
-
DIY expert names 'easiest' and most 'effective' ways to clean your patio
