A violent three-day period across London has seen a 16-year-old boy shot dead and six others stabbed, with two victims currently fighting for their lives.
Between March 4 and March 6, serious incidents unfolded in Stockwell, Croydon, Harrow, Ruislip, and Swiss Cottage. The following reports are based on information provided by the Metropolitan Police.
16-Year-Old Shot Dead in Stockwell
A schoolboy, 16-year-old Lathaniel Burrell, was shot and killed in Stockwell on March 4.
Emergency services were called to Paradise Road at 3:20 pm, where they found Lathaniel with gunshot injuries. Despite efforts from paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A 32-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder in Croydon on March 7.
Local residents described Lathaniel as a “very nice boy” who had “got in with the wrong crowd”. Some witnesses claimed that the gunmen posed as delivery drivers before carrying out the fatal attack.
Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee condemned the “horrendous crime” and urged anyone with information or footage from the area to come forward.
“This has shocked the local community and beyond. We are examining CCTV, collecting witness statements, and engaging with local schools. We need the public’s help – no matter how small the detail.”
Teenager Stabbed in Croydon
A 19-year-old man was found with stab injuries after an attack on George Street, Croydon, at 9:52 pm on March 4.
He was taken to hospital, where his injuries were confirmed as non-life-threatening.
Two men, both in their 20s, were arrested at the scene on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH) and remain in police custody.
12-Year-Old Stabbed at School in Swiss Cottage
A 12-year-old boy was stabbed during an altercation at a school on Adelaide Road, Swiss Cottage, just before 12:55 pm on March 4.
Paramedics treated the victim at the scene before rushing him to hospital, where he was assessed as non-life-threatening.
Two 14-year-old boys were arrested on suspicion of GBH and possession of an offensive weapon.
The victim is a student at The UCL Academy, which confirmed the incident in a letter to parents.
Boy Fighting for Life After Triple Stabbing in Harrow
A 15-year-old boy is fighting for his life after being stabbed in Northolt Road, Harrow, around 4:00 pm on March 5.
Two 16-year-old boys were also injured in the attack but have since been discharged from hospital.
A 16-year-old suspect was arrested overnight on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and remains in custody.
16-Year-Old Critically Injured in Ruislip Stabbing
A 16-year-old boy is in a critical condition after being stabbed on Victoria Road, near Queens Walk, Ruislip, at 4:55 pm on March 6.
He was taken to hospital, where doctors assessed his condition as life-threatening.
A 19-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident.
London’s Surge in Knife and Gun Violence
These violent incidents over just three days highlight the ongoing concerns around youth violence and gang activity in London. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward to help prevent further tragedies.
Anyone who witnessed these incidents or has any information should contact Met Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.