John Mackey, born in Callan in County Kilkenny, Ireland, had spent more than half his life in London after moving there at 19. Two days after sustaining head injuries in an attack as he walked from the shops, Mr Mackey died in hospital. The accused, the court, and what lies aheadThis week, the case moved into the London courts. Key timeline6 May 2025 — Mr Mackey attacked while walking from a Co-op and a nearby kebab shop. Safety, ageing, and urban lifeThe attack on Mr Mackey brings into relief larger questions about the safety of older people in cities.