Teen Stabbed to Death Near High Street Pub
An 18-year-old local lad was found stabbed in a dark alley behind The Peterboat pub on High Street yesterday evening. Two people rushed him to hospital around 6pm on Friday, February 26, but he sadly died shortly after arrival.
Heart Stabbed: Targeted Attack Under Investigation
A post-mortem revealed a single stab wound to the heart caused the fatal injury. Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Truss, leading the probe, said: “We’re treating this as a targeted incident and are making good progress. We urge the public not to take matters into their own hands but to let us bring those responsible to justice.”
Police Crackdown: Stop & Search Powers Activated
To tackle rising concerns, police are stepping up patrols in Old Leigh, the High Street, and surrounding areas. From 5pm on Saturday, February 27, until 2am Sunday, stop and search powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 are in force. This allows officers to search anyone without suspicion for weapons or dangerous items.
Alongside this, a dispersal order is active in the same zone and times. Chief Inspector Chris Bradford said: “We’ll keep a strong presence all weekend. If you live locally, please speak to officers with any info or concerns.”
Two Men Arrested, Public Help Urgently Needed
A 31-year-old from Westcliff and a 19-year-old from Rayleigh have been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and remain in custody. Police are calling on anyone who was near the seawall in Old Leigh between 5pm and 6pm on Friday to come forward — no detail is too small.
If you saw anything or have footage from phones, CCTV, or dash cams, contact officers at the scene or submit info online at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020121P63-PO1. You can also provide anonymous tips to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-uk.org.
Police remind the community to respect the family’s privacy and pay respects privately at home, despite the planned vigil. They thank the public for cooperating so far during this tragic investigation.
