Boy, 15, London's latest teen murder victim after Woolwich stabbing - 15-year-old boy arrested

A 15-year-old boy has become London's latest teen murder victim after a stabbing in Woolwich. Police were called at 5.23pm on Monday, July 5, to reports of a stabbing on Woolwich New Road. A Met Police spokesman said: "Officers attended and found a 15-year-old boy suffering from a stab injury.

"They immediately provided first aid prior to the arrival of the London Ambulance Service. "Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene at 6.08pm.

"His next of kin has been informed, formal identification has not taken place and a post-mortem examination will be held in due course." Police were subsequently called to a south London hospital after a 15-year-old boy turned up with a stab wound.

His injury is not believed to be life-threatening and he was arrested on suspicion of murder.

Homicide detectives from the Specialist Crime Command are leading the investigation.

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."

Superintendent Petra Lazar, of South East BCU, said: "It is shocking and extremely saddening that a teenage boy has lost his life as the result of knife crime.

"My thoughts at this time are with the family of the boy who has died.

"This incident will understandably cause worry and concern to local residents and I would like to reassure them my officers are supporting the murder detectives in every way we can. Increased patrols will be carried out in the area over the next few days."

A crime scene is in place and officers remain in the area. Enquiries continue. A section 60 Order, which gives police more powers of stop and search and to disperse groups has been authorised until 10:00am on Tuesday, July 6 for Woolwich Common, Woolwich Riverside and Glyndon wards.

He was the 21st teen to be murdered in London this year - three more than the 18 for the whole of 2020. Any witnesses are asked to call police via 101 quoting reference Cad 5748/05Jul. To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.