Second Arrest Made in Fatal Stabbing of Teen in Romford Park
Detectives have swooped again in the hunt for justice over the brutal murder of 17-year-old Jodie Chesney. A man was arrested in London early this morning, Friday 8 March, on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody.
This follows a 20-year-old man held in Leicester since Tuesday, 6 March, who is also being questioned.
Shocking Attack in Harold Hill Park
Police were scrambled by London Ambulance Service at 9:25pm on Friday 1 March, after reports of a stabbing near St Neot’s Road, Harold Hill.
Officers found Jodie suffering from a stab wound to her back. She was tragically pronounced dead just over an hour later at 10:26pm. Her family have been informed and are distraught.
A post-mortem revealed Jodie died from trauma and haemorrhage. The Homicide and Major Crime Command (HMCC) immediately launched a murder probe.
Terrifying Moments in the Park
Jodie had been hanging out with five friends, chilling and playing music in the park.
They noticed two males earlier who left around 9pm without saying a word. But just 30 minutes later, the pair returned, walked straight up to the group, and one plunged a knife into Jodie’s back – without warning or a word.
The attackers fled towards Retford Road and remain on the run.
Family Plea and Detective’s Warning
Jodie’s family made a heartbreaking appeal, urging anyone with information to come forward and help bring her killers to justice.
“This was a savage, evil attack,” said Detective Chief Inspector Dave Whellams. “We’re making good progress but need the public’s help. There’s no clear motive yet, which is very unusual. We’re keeping an open mind.”
“If you know someone acting suspiciously – nervous, withdrawn, or just not themselves – step up and tell us.”
Anyone with info should contact the HMCC Incident Room on 020 8345 3775, tweet @MetCC, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
