Teenager Stabbed to Death on Woolwich New Road
Tragedy struck Woolwich on Monday evening as a 15-year-old boy was fatally stabbed on Woolwich New Road, SE18. Police were called at 5.23pm and found the boy suffering from a stab wound. Despite officers giving immediate first aid, he was declared dead at the scene just 45 minutes later, at 6.08pm.
Suspect Arrested After Second Teen Turns Up at Hospital
Shortly after the stabbing, police were alerted to a second 15-year-old boy who self-presented at a south London hospital with a stab wound. Thankfully, his injuries are not life-threatening. This boy was arrested on suspicion of murder and is now in police custody as homicide detectives take charge.
Police Hunt Witnesses and Mobile Footage
Detective Chief Inspector Perry Benton of the Met’s Specialist Crime Command said: “We know that there were a lot of people around at the time who may have witnessed the events leading up to this incident. I’m sure people will have mobile phone footage from the scene, and if they believe it could assist our investigation, I would urge them to pass it on to us. One arrest has been made, but our enquiries are still at an early stage, so I would ask anyone who knows anything about the motive for this attack or who was responsible to contact us immediately.”
Community on Edge as Increased Patrols Launch
Superintendent Petra Lazar from South East BCU added: “It is shocking and extremely saddening that a teenage boy has lost his life as the result of knife crime. My thoughts are with the family of the boy who has died. This incident will understandably cause worry and concern to local residents. I want to reassure them my officers are supporting the murder detectives fully. Increased patrols will be carried out in the area over the next few days.”
A crime scene remains in place as enquiries continue. Police have authorised a Section 60 Order from 7.02pm Monday until 10am Tuesday covering Woolwich Common, Woolwich Riverside, and Glyndon wards to help prevent further violence.
Witnesses are urged to call police on 101 quoting reference Cad 5748/05Jul. To stay anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
