Police have released the name and photo of a 16-year-old kid who was killed by a ‘brutal’ knife attack only yards from his school.
Just after 4 o’clock on Friday, Renell Charles was stabbed in Walthamstow, east London.
He passed away there, in front of other students and onlookers who had seen the incident, not far from Kelmscott School, where he was a Year 11 student.
Police today revealed that a 16-year-old boy was detained on suspicion of murder in the early hours of Sunday after he went to an east London police station, after the opening of a murder investigation.
The teenager remains in custody, while Renell’s family are being supported by specially trained officers.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, who is leading the Met’s investigation, asked for images and footage that may help the investigation to be shared with police.
DCI Rogers said: ‘This is a fast moving investigation and we are aware that this brutal attack took place near a school, and was witnessed by many bystanders and young people.
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‘My thoughts are with them as they come to terms with seeing such an act of violence unfold, and I would ask anyone with footage or images to do the right thing and send them into my team of detectives.
‘If you wish to submit images or footage anonymously, please share via Crimestoppers, or you can contact the Major Incident Room where one of my team will be able to take your call. You can also share the images via the Public Portal.’
He added: ‘We also know that there was heavy traffic on Markhouse Road at that time of day and we think there is a strong chance some people will have dashcam footage.
‘Please review what you have and send anything that may assist the investigation without delay.
‘A young boy has lost his life and evidence such as this can contribute to securing justice for his family and friends.’
A post-mortem examination took place on Saturday and found the cause of death to be a stab wound to the chest.
In a statement on Friday, Kelmscott head teacher Sam Jones said: ‘I cannot overstate how devastated I am by today’s senseless violence and I am sure the Kelmscott community shares my grief and sadness.
‘Kelmscott is a large and tightknit family and this loss will be felt for a long time to come.
‘I urge our community to remain respectful of the victim’s family and the police investigation. We will be offering counselling and support to pupils affected by this tragedy.’
Grace Williams, leader of Waltham Forest Council, said in a statement: ‘Nobody should have to deal with the loss of somebody so young and my heart goes out to the family and friends of the deceased.
‘Their loss is our loss. The people of Waltham Forest and beyond will be shocked by this senseless act.’