Man arrested after boy, 15, stabbed to death in east London

Man arrested after boy, 15, stabbed to death in east London thumbnail

A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a teenage boy was stabbed to death in east London.

Police were called just before 7pm on Friday after reports of a stabbing in Woodman Street, near the royal docks in Newham.

Metropolitan police officers and members of the London ambulance service attended and found the boy, who is believed to have been 15, injured. Despite their efforts to help him, the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Met said his next of kin had been informed and police inquiries were under way.

A neighbour, Lawrence Adu, said he had seen the boy earlier on Friday. He said he was a friend of the boy’s uncle and had known him all his life.

“I just got home, I’m so shocked,” he said. “He’s a nice young man, very handsome and always laughing.”

Det Supt Paul Whiteman said: “I am shocked at this tragic loss of a young life. An arrest has been made but the investigation is still in its early stages.

“I would appeal to any members of the local community to come forward with any information which might help bring those responsible to justice.”

The investigation is being led by the Met’s specialist crime command and anyone with information is urged to call the incident room on 0208 345 3715. Alternatively, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.