A murder investigation has been launched after a boy was stabbed to death in the Homerton neighbourhood and officers investigating a possible shooting as well
A teenage boy has been stabbed to death after attending a house party in Hackney on Bank Holiday Monday. Met Police officers were called just after 7pm on Monday, May 25, to reports of a ‘large gathering of individuals’ in Towpath Walk, in the Homerton neighbourhood.
MyLondon spoke to residents at the scene, who said a block party had taken place on Monday. When officers arrived, along with the London Ambulance Service and Air Ambulance, they found a teenage boy with stab wounds in Poplar Close.
The boy was pronounced dead at the scene. Police are in the process of formally identifying the victim and informing his next of kin. Pictures from the scene this morning (Tuesday, May 26) show a large police cordon, several officers and a blue tent within Poplar Close as officers continue carrying out urgent enquiries.
Detective Chief Inspector Ben Massink, of the Met’s Specialist Crime command, said: “Our thoughts remain with the victim and his family – we are working at pace to ensure all his loved ones are informed and offered specialist support from officers.
“For members of the local community, who will no doubt be shocked and saddened by the events of yesterday evening, increased police patrols are in place in the area. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to speak with one of our officers.”
A local parent at the scene described how the alleged party happens “once a year”. She told MyLondon: “This block party happens once a year, and there’s always a problem. I have a young son, and I’m scared every time he leaves the house. Every life matters. I’m scared every day being a parent here.”
Officers attended the scene to reports of the stabbing as well as possible firearms discharge. Videos and pictures posted to social media show a person allegedly holding a firearm.
Detective Chief Inspector Ben Massink continued: “Urgent enquiries continue to establish exactly what happened. We know there were a significant number of people in the area at the time of the stabbing, and some individuals recorded the incident on their mobile phone.
“I would urge anyone who witnessed what happened or who has footage of the incident to come forward to police – your information could be vital. I would also ask those with videos or photographs not to post this on social media out of respect for the bereaved family.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting CAD 6692/25May. Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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