The teenager who was stabbed to death near a playing field on Craneford Way in Twickenham yesterday was a student at the nearby college, it has emerged.
The PA news agency reported on Wednesday (October 13) that the victim of the fatal stabbing, an 18-year-old, was a student at Richmond Upon Thames College.
As the Richmond and Twickenham Times reported, the teenager was fatally wounded around 4.45pm on Tuesday at the site in Craneford Way, Twickenham according to the Metropolitan Police.
He was taken to hospital but was pronounced dead around an hour later. His next of kin have been informed.
The scene of the attack is yards from Richmond upon Thames College, which confirmed on Wednesday that the victim was one of its students.
The college’s principal, Dr Jason Jones, said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the student’s family and friends at this difficult time. This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for our students, parents, staff and local community."
The college said it was cooperating with the police investigation as well as providing support and counselling to students and staff, and has boosted security and surveillance at its entrances.
Students were reportedly able to choose whether to go in for lessons or stay at home on Wednesday
One of them who walked passed the scene of the attack was Connor Burberry, 17, who said he felt "numb" but that such crimes were all too "normal".
"I left my house at 9am, said goodbye to my nan, ‘love you,’ gave her a kiss and returned home. He (the victim) didn’t and for me it’s just, like, that could happen to anyone," he said.
Police said that a number of people witnessed the fatal stabbing.
Detective Chief Inspector Vicky Tunstall urged them to come forward and refrain from sharing any footage of the incident online.
"The incident occurred in a playing field area and was witnessed by a number of people. Some of those people are believed to have filmed events as they unfolded; I ask that any videos are not shared via social media to avoid causing the young man’s family any more distress at this already incredibly difficult time for them," Tunstall said.
"Instead, please go to the police immediately. A number of people have spoken to us, but we need to hear from anyone who has information that could help. We’re working to establish the motive behind this tragic incident and following a number of leads. If you believe you can help us, then please make contact."
Anyone with information can contact police on 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting the reference 5697/12OCT.
To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
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