A 15-year-old boy was tragically stabbed in south-east London. He reportedly pleaded, ‘I’m 15, don’t let me die,‘ as he lay bleeding on the street. This was according to a witness who tried to save him. The fatal incident occurred in Woolwich on Sunday evening, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 6:30 pm after reports of a disturbance. Upon arrival, police found the boy suffering from a stab wound. Despite efforts to save him, he sadly succumbed to his injuries shortly afterwards.
A local resident has lived in the area for 14 years. She asked not to be named. She recounted her attempts to help the boy after hearing someone shout, “Someone’s been stabbed.” Rushing out in bare feet, she found the young victim face down on the ground. He had a serious head wound and a “massive pool of blood” near his leg. Using a sheet to try and stem the flow of blood, she remained with him until paramedics arrived.
In a heartbreaking exchange, the boy reportedly said, “I’m 15, I’m 15. Don’t let me die.” She responded, “You’re not going to die, mate.”
The witness described the boy as “the most polite boy” she had encountered in the neighbourhood. She recalled how he had always greeted people kindly. He also moved out of the way when walking. Just days before, she had seen him dancing with friends to a TikTok song in the street.
Police and Community React
Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry of the Metropolitan Police, speaking from Plumstead police station on Monday, confirmed the victim’s age. He expressed the profound impact the incident has had on the boy’s family. It also had an impact on the wider community.
“Once again, we’ve had to tell a child’s family that their loved one has been killed in an act of violence using knives. Our thoughts are with them as they struggle to comprehend what has happened,” he said. He highlighted the ongoing issue of “zombie-style knives” being used in violent crimes. He reiterated the police’s commitment to removing such weapons from the streets.
“The fact a 15-year-old teenager had his whole life ahead of him is a stark and sobering reminder. He has been taken from his family in this way. It highlights the danger of zombie-style knives. We are committed to doing everything in our power to take these weapons off the streets,” Lawry added.
Mayor Sadiq Khan’s Statement
A spokesperson for London Mayor Sadiq Khan also expressed condolences to the victim’s family. They extended their sympathies to the local community. They condemned the violence.
“The mayor’s thoughts are with the family and friends of the teenage boy. He has been killed in Woolwich. The mayor’s thoughts are also with the wider community. This heartbreaking violence has no place in our streets,” the spokesperson said. The mayor’s office confirmed that there will be increased police patrols in the area in response to the tragedy.
Investigation Ongoing
The boy’s next of kin have been informed, but as of now, no arrests have been made. A crime scene cordon remains in place as police continue their investigation.
This tragic event has deeply affected the Woolwich community, serving as a chilling reminder of the growing concern over knife crime in London. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. They are working to bring justice to the young victim and his family.