A 14-year-old boy who was fatally stabbed on a bus in Woolwich has been remembered as a “protector” and a loyal friend during an emotional funeral service held this week.

Kelyan Bokassa, who was stabbed around 27 times while on board a 472 bus in Woolwich Church Street on January 7, was laid to rest on Wednesday (March 12) at a service held at Christ Church Greenwich on Trafalgar Road.

More than 100 mourners, including family, friends, and members of the local community, gathered to pay tribute to the young teenager, whose life was tragically cut short.

Kelyan, described as an aspiring rapper, sustained a severed femoral artery in the attack and sadly died at the scene shortly after medics arrived.

During a moving eulogy, his mother Marie Bokassa paid tribute to her son, saying:

“He was not just my child. To many, he was a protector and a loyal friend. He nurtured his friendships fiercely, always putting his friends first and ensuring they felt safe and valued.”

Leading the service, Reverend John Pout said:

“Kelyan’s life was just beginning. He was a young man with so much potential. He was clearly very gifted.”

Two Teenagers Charged

Two teenage boys, aged 15 and 16, have been charged with Kelyan’s murder and appeared in court on January 20. Due to their age, their identities cannot be made public.

A plea hearing is scheduled for 14 April, with a provisional trial date set for 13 October at the Old Bailey.

A Community in Grief

Kelyan’s death has sent shockwaves through the Woolwich and Greenwich communities, adding to growing concerns over youth violence and knife crime in the capital.

Floral tributes and messages have continued to be left near the scene of the attack as friends and residents grapple with another life lost far too soon.

Police continue to appeal for any further information that may assist the ongoing investigation. Anyone with details is urged to contact Met Police or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.