Detectives are appealing for information about two suspects seen running away from the scene
A man stabbed to death near a school in Hackney has been named for the first time. Elijah Seriki, aged in his 20s, was attacked on Andre Street shortly after 1.40pm on Monday, July 13 and died in nearby Hackney Downs.
A forensics tent was erected at the Hackney Downs Road entrance overnight, metres from where children usually play. Homicide detectives continue to appeal for information as they work to make an arrest.
Two suspects were seen running away from the scene along Anton Street towards Sandringham Road, the Metropolitan Police shared in an update this afternoon. Work is underway to identify and trace these individuals as part of the ongoing murder investigation.
The stabbing took place close to Mossbourne Community Academy.
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, who leads policing for the area, previously said: “We understand that this incident occurred close to a school in broad daylight, which will be hugely concerning for local residents.
“We don’t believe this to involve any pupils at the school and are treating this as an isolated incident. We will continue to update the community when we can.”
A heavy police presence was pictured in Hackney Downs and the surrounding streets as forensics teams gathered evidence. Mayor of Hackney Zoë Garbett said Elijah’s death is ‘shocking and saddening’.
She added: “We know that our residents will be worried and upset, and we are offering our support to those affected by this incident. Our teams are ready to provide assistance to the police in their investigation as needed.”
Anybody with information is urged to call 101, quoting reference 4139/13JUL. Information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
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