Detectives have identified the teenage boy who tragically lost his life in a collision near Orpington and are appealing for witnesses to come forward. The victim has been named as Tafari Thompson-Mintah, a 16-year-old who resided in Grove Park.
The incident occurred at approximately 15.30/BST. on Monday, October 9, when Tafari was riding a moped along Sevenoaks Way in St Paul’s Cray. Despite the immediate response of emergency services, Tafari succumbed to his injuries at the scene. His family is being provided with support from the authorities during this extremely challenging time.
The investigation into the collision is being led by detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command. They believe that Tafari’s moped was intentionally struck by a red Mercedes car, causing the moped to veer into the path of an orange Vauxhall Mokka car.
Shockingly, the driver of the Mercedes failed to stop at the scene and abandoned the vehicle nearby shortly afterward. Detectives are urgently conducting inquiries to ascertain the identity and whereabouts of the driver. On the other hand, the driver of the Mokka did stop at the scene and was treated by paramedics for shock.
Detective Inspector Martin Thorpe, who is leading the investigation, expressed his condolences to Tafari’s family during this incredibly difficult period. He emphasised the importance of any witnesses to the collision coming forward promptly, particularly considering the incident occurred on a busy road near the Nugent retail park.
While investigators have already spoken to several witnesses, they urge anyone who saw the collision to come forward with any information they may have. Additionally, drivers who were on Sevenoaks Way on the afternoon of Monday, October 9, are requested to review their dashcam footage for any evidence of the moped or the red Mercedes prior to the collision.
Anyone who can assist in the investigation is urged to contact the police at 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC, quoting CAD 4890/09Oct. Alternatively, individuals can provide anonymous information to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
