Two More Teens Arrested in Shocking Greenwich Double Stabbing
Detectives hunting for answers in the brutal murders of teenagers Charlie Bartolo and Kearne Solanke have made two more arrests. A 16-year-old lad was nabbed Tuesday morning (November 29), followed by a 15-year-old boy arrested later the same day. Both are being held on suspicion of the double stabbing, which left the community reeling.
Suspects in Custody as Police Push Investigation
Earlier, on Sunday, November 27, police arrested another 16-year-old boy tied to the case. However, he’s now been released on bail and is due to return to a south London station in February 2023. The investigation remains intense and ongoing.
Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn of the Met’s Specialist Crime Command said: “My officers are working around the clock to establish the circumstances of these senseless murders and to find those responsible. We remain in close contact with the families of Kearne and Charlie and are keeping them updated with developments as the investigation progresses.
We’re pursuing a number of lines of enquiry and keeping an open mind about any motive. We’ve set up a system for the public to send info directly to the team for quick assessment. The arrests are positive, but we continue to work hard to understand what happened that Saturday evening.
I’m grateful for the information already received. We can only solve these tragic crimes thanks to vital public help. We urge anyone who witnessed something relevant that night to come forward. You can even give info anonymously via Crimestoppers.
We’re particularly interested in anyone who saw a black Nissan Qashqai with silver roof bars near Sewell Road or Titmuss Avenue in the days leading to the murders. The vehicle’s in our possession, but eyewitnesses driving it locally are vital. Your information could help bring justice for these young lads and their families.”
Tragic Murders Rock Greenwich Community
The shocking killings happened on Saturday, November 26, around 5.10pm. Police rushed to reports of two separate stabbing injuries about a mile apart — one on Sewell Road, Abbey Wood, the other on Titmuss Avenue, Thamesmead.
Emergency crews, including London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance, found Charlie Bartolo and Kearne Solanke both aged 16, suffering from stab wounds. Despite fast medical action, both boys sadly died at the scenes.
Their families, devastated by the loss, are being supported by specialist officers and have asked for privacy during this heartbreaking time.
Authorities Urge Locals to Step Up
Detective Superintendent Richard McDonagh from the South East Command Unit said: “My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families, friends, and local residents of Abbey Wood and Thamesmead shocked by these senseless murders. As Deputy Borough Commander, I share the community’s sorrow and outrage.”
“Our skilled detectives are determined to uncover what happened and bring answers to the victims’ families. Tackling violence remains a Met priority. We urge Londoners to work with us and partners to help prevent such tragedies.”
How You Can Help
- Report any information via the Met Police dedicated investigation webpage.
- Call 101 and quote reference 4943/26NOV.
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 if you’re uneasy speaking to the police.
Detectives are especially keen to hear from anyone who saw the black Nissan Qashqai with silver roof bars near Sewell Road or Titmuss Avenue before the murders.
