Teen Aspiring Rapper 'Grippa' Fatally Stabbed on London Bus
A 14-year-old boy, known online as the aspiring drill rapper ‘Grippa’, was fatally stabbed on a London Route 472 bus in Woolwich. The shocking attack unfolded in front of stunned passengers at around 2:30 PM on Tuesday, 7 January.
Manhunt Underway for Murder Suspect
The Metropolitan Police have launched a major manhunt for the attacker. No arrests have been made yet. Officers are urgently appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Chief Superintendent Louise Sargent said last night: “This is a horrendous crime, and I can’t imagine what the victim’s family and friends are going through right now. We are working at pace to identify and arrest those involved.”
Heartbreaking Tributes Pour In
Friends described ‘Grippa’ as “taken too soon.” His music, including his latest Christmas Day release ‘Bangers & Mash’, has been widely shared online in tribute.
A close friend, visibly upset at the scene, told reporters: “He didn’t deserve this. He was a nice person. He was good at football, but I don’t think he was pursuing it as a career.”
Local reaction is one of shock and sadness:
- Mechanic Dave Murray, 62, from Plumstead: “It’s tragic. Whatever those boys were fighting about, it’s never worth it.”
- Local mother Shula: “I can’t believe a boy was stabbed to death on a bus. Is it too dangerous to go on the bus now?”
Mayor Sadiq Khan Condemns Attack
London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed his sorrow and reassured the public the police are working hard to catch those responsible.
“My thoughts are with the family, friends, and wider community in Greenwich following the appalling fatal stabbing of a 14-year-old boy. This heart-breaking violence has absolutely no place in our city.”
Police have sealed off Woolwich Church Road near the A205 South Circular Road. Forensic teams are combing the double-decker bus where the killing took place.
Knife Crime Crisis Escalates in London
The fatal stabbing comes just a day after an 18-year-old was stabbed and seriously injured less than a mile away on Prince Imperial Road, Woolwich. Police say the two attacks are not linked.
Knife crime remains a major issue across London, with 15,016 offences recorded in 2023/24 — a 17.4% increase from the previous year.
Police Urge Witnesses to Speak Up
Detectives are appealing for anyone with information to help with the investigation:
- Call police on 101 quoting reference 3795/07JAN25
- Or call Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111
Residents are also asked to check any CCTV or dashcam footage for clues.
This story is developing and updates will follow as more details emerge.
