A 15-year-old girl has died after she was stabbed to death in Croydon, South London during a rush hour by someone who may have known her.
A 17-year-old boy believed to have known the victim had been arrested and is in custody, the Metropolitan police said.
The girl was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School. Reacting to the news, the school released a statement:
“We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil.
“It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so. Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girl’s family at this unimaginably distressing time.”
Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said: “Our immediate thoughts are with this young girl’s family who are facing the most tragic news. Our officers are with the girl’s family to support them.
“I am in contact with the local community, who are clearly as concerned as we are about this tragic incident. I shall continue to update them throughout the day.”
Emergency services were called to Wellesley Road in Croydon at about 8.38.30 a.m. to report the girl had been stabbed. She was confirmed dead 50 minutes later.
75 minutes later, police arrested a 17-year-old boy in connection with the stabbing.
Brittain said: “My officers were immediately on scene to provide first aid and support paramedics. Acting on information provided to them, officers also worked closely with colleagues from across the Met and the British Transport Police to track a teenager in connection with the stabbing.
“I can confirm that an arrest was made at about 9.45 a.m. in the Croydon area. At this early stage, we believe that he may have known her.
“A crime scene will be in place for some time, and I am grateful for the cooperation of residents.”
