01 January 2024 , 16:05
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The teenage boy killed in a shocking New Year's Eve stabbing on Primrose Hill in London has been identified as 16-year-old Harry Pitman.
Police said Harry was with a group of friends near a viewing platform in the park when he became involved in an altercation.
Officers at the scene administered first aid before medics arrived, but despite their best efforts the teen passed away shortly before midnight. An air ambulance was also called to the scene. The victim's family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
Police confirmed a 16-year-old male has been arrested on suspicion of murder, and remained in police custody on Monday. A cordon is currently in place at Primrose Hill as forensic examinations take place in the area.
The popular London park was cordoned off on Monday for forensic investigations (PA)Footage shared online showed police vehicles moving through a crowd towards officers who were giving CPR to the victim, while shocked onlookers could be seen by the top of the hill. Many in attendance reported police searching people on their way out of the London park, which has become a popular spot for local youths to mix at night in recent years. The victim was the 22nd teenager to be murdered in London in 2023, 18 of whom were fatally stabbed.
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The victim was the 22nd teenager to be murdered in London in 2023 (SWNS)One local woman told the PA news agency there were “hundreds if not thousands” of people in the park at the time of the attack, including many families. Officers from the Met Police said the area was very busy at the time of the incident, and have urged people who may have witnessed it to come forward.
Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Grogan, who is leading the investigation said: "My thoughts and sympathies are with Harry's family and friends at this difficult time. He was a young man with the rest of his life ahead of him. His family are understandably devastated and specially trained officers are supporting them as they come to terms with their loss.
"A dedicated team of detectives are working hard to establish the events that led to such a senseless act of violence. We are reviewing CCTV footage from the area and are carrying out a forensic examination of the scene. We know Harry was with a group of friends near the viewing platform on Primrose Hill where they had gathered to celebrate the New Year. It is here where we believe Harry became involved in an altercation with devastating consequences.
"Primrose Hill was very busy at the time and I believe there are people who witnessed the incident who have not yet spoken to police. It is vital that we build a clear picture of the moments leading up to, and immediately after, Harry's murder and I need anyone with information about the altercation, or the attack, to contact us immediately."
Information and footage can also be provided by witnesses via the incident web page. Anyone who wishes to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers.