Police Search Ponds in Hunt for Clues After Lewisham Stabbing
Detectives have scoured a nearby pond as part of the murder probe into the fatal stabbing of John Temitope Onetufo in Lewisham, south-east London.
The 23-year-old Nigerian man from Deptford was brutally killed on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2025. He suffered a chest stab wound amid what police say was an ongoing dispute.
horrifying Attack on Grove Street
Emergency services raced to Grove Street, Lewisham, just after 12:30pm following reports of a serious assault. Paramedics found Mr Onetufo with a deep stab to the chest.
Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at the scene despite desperate efforts to save him. The post-mortem revealed a gruesome wound nearly 18cm deep that pierced his heart.
River Search Underway in Evidence Hunt
In a key development, officers have launched targeted searches near a local river, hunting for potential evidence tied to the killing. The pond searches form part of a wider forensic effort as detectives piece together the violent events.
Police have refused to confirm exactly what they seek but stress the investigation remains “complex and active.”
17-Year-Old Charged, Others Released on Bail
A 17-year-old boy has been charged with murder and appeared at the Old Bailey on January 7. Due to his age, he remains unnamed. A plea hearing is set for March 26, with a tentative trial date of September 14.
Two others arrested remain on bail:
- A 23-year-old man, arrested for murder on January 2.
- An 18-year-old woman, arrested for perverting the course of justice on January 4.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
The Metropolitan Police have urged anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam, or mobile footage to come forward. They are vital to cracking this case.
- Call 101, quoting CAD 2852/31Dec
- Tweet @MetCC
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111
Officers continue to support Mr Onetufo’s family as the investigation presses on.
