UPDATE: Detectives arrest teenager in connection with Hackney murder

Detectives investigating the murder of a teenager in Hackney have made an arrest.

A 17-year-old was arrested today, Monday, 19 February, on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody.

Officers continue to appeal for information and witnesses as they work around the clock to find out how the victim died and who was responsible.

Police were called at 22:53hrs on Saturday, 17 February to reports that a male had been stabbed in Hackney Road near the junction with Cremer Street, E2.

Officers and London Ambulance Service attended the scene and found the 17-year-old victim suffering from stab injuries. Despite their efforts, he sadly died at the scene. His family has been informed and continue to receive support from specialist officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, from Specialist Crime North, said: “A family has been left devastated following the tragic death of yet another young man on our streets. We have been working tirelessly to establish what happened and find whoever is responsible for this shocking attack.

“While we have already spoken to a number of people, the incident took place on a busy road and we know there will have been others in the area at the time who are yet to come forward. I would ask those individuals to make contact and tell us what you saw.”

The victim is yet to be formally identified. A post-mortem examination will take place on Wednesday, 21 February at Poplar Mortuary.

As well as interviewing a number of witnesses, officers have been carrying out ongoing forensic work, trawling through relevant CCTV footage, and carrying out house-to-house enquiries.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, who leads policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: “My thoughts are with the family of this young man who has tragically lost his life. I can assure them that we will be relentless in seeking to identify whoever was responsible for this murder.

“Cordons remain in place for the ongoing forensic examination of the scene and local people will continue to see additional patrols in the area. If you have any concerns or information please speak with those officers. They are there to support you.”

Anyone with information and any witnesses yet to speak with police are asked to call 101, quoting reference CAD 7553/17Feb. To remain anonymous, please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers.