Teen Found Guilty of Murdering Solomon, 18, in Woolwich
A 17-year-old boy has been convicted of murdering Solomon Small, 18, following a brutal attack in Woolwich. The verdict came after a tense four-week trial at Woolwich Crown Court on Tuesday, 10 March.
Fateful Encounter on Corrance Road
Police were called to Corrance Road just before 2pm on Thursday, 15 August 2019, after Solomon was found with multiple stab wounds. Paramedics tried desperately to save him, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Earlier that afternoon, Solomon was walking with a female friend. They stopped near a supermarket cashpoint, passing a kebab shop where the 17-year-old attacker was waiting. Though they briefly spoke, the friend sensed the attacker was cold towards Solomon.
After ditching the cashpoint trip, the pair went into the supermarket, then to a café on Acre Lane, and later to a friend’s house. On their way back, they crossed paths with the attacker again. CCTV captured the teen following them shortly after.
Terrifying Stabbing and Chase
The attacker confronted Solomon and started asking questions. Tensions escalated and a fight broke out. Solomon was stabbed multiple times but heroically shielded his friend by pulling his attacker away from her.
The 17-year-old then fled. Solomon’s friend immediately called 999, and police arrived within five minutes.
Police Hunt Leads to Arrest
Homicide detectives tracked the suspect using CCTV, unveiling the route he took after the attack. Four days later, officers found burnt clothing in Brixton traced back to the attacker through DNA tests.
The next day, the teenager surrendered to police with his mother and was charged with murder. Throughout questioning, he refused to comment.
Investigator and Family Speak Out
“Solomon Small had his life tragically cut short by senseless violence. Even in his last moments Solomon displayed unimaginable bravery,” said Acting Detective Inspector Neil Cramer.
“He pulled his attacker away from his friend to protect her, though it meant suffering more wounds. This has been an incredibly difficult time for Solomon’s family and friends, and I hope this verdict brings them some peace.”
“I also want to commend Solomon’s friend who was with him as he died. She has shown incredible courage throughout the investigation.”
“There is no justification for such brutality. Tackling violence like this is a top priority for London’s police.”
In a heartfelt statement, Solomon’s family said: “We thank God for everything He has done for us in this case. We are grateful to all who supported us, including our legal team and the investigators.”
“Our hearts go out to everyone who has lost loved ones to violence. As children of Rastafari, we pray for Solomon’s soul and trust God will guide him in his next journey.”
“Our son is gone and cannot be returned. No sentence will bring him back. It breaks our hearts to see young people caught up in violence and gangs.”
“We propose young people channel their energy into building businesses rather than gangs—compete through success, not violence.”
“Our faith teaches us to seek peace, and we pray for the strength to carry on despite this unbearable loss.”
Sentencing for the teenager is set for Monday, 9 April at Woolwich Crown Court.
