Thamesmead: Teenage stabbing victims named as tributes pour in

Tributes are pouring in for two 16-year-old boys killed in “senseless” knife attacks just a mile apart in south-east London.

Detectives are considering the murders of Kearnie Solanke and Charlie Bartolo Saturday afternoon as linked, as investigations continue.

Floral tributes, soft toys, balloons and emotional messages were left near the cordon at the two crime scenes – one on Titmuss Avenue, Thamesmead and one on Sewell Road, Abbey Wood.

Charlie's initials, CB, were spelled out on the floor using tea lights.

One note read: “Much too young to be caught.” RIP Charlie.

Another read: “To Charlie. RIP boy. Never to be forgotten, always in our hearts. Another mourner, Bob, wrote a note to Charlie attached to the flowers saying “I can't believe you're gone”.

Throughout Sunday, loved ones visited floral tributes to pay their respects. Some were seen crying and hugging each other.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said the loss of two young lives was “devastating”.

In a tweet on Sunday, he said: “Violent crime destroys lives and tears communities apart and I will continue to do everything I can to stamp it out.

“I am in regular contact with the Met Commissioner and know that officers are working tirelessly to investigate these terrible incidents.”

As families and friends of the victims mourn their deaths, police revealed Sunday afternoon that they are interested in hearing from anyone who may have seen a dark-colored SUV-type vehicle in the area.

Detective Superintendent Richard McDonagh, speaking at the scene of one of the incidents, told reporters: “Colleagues in the homicide squad are investigating and treating the two murders as linked.

“Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen a dark colored SUV or 4X4 with distinctive silver roof racks in the areas around Sewell Road or Titmuss Avenue in the days leading up to the murders.

“We have already heard from several witnesses and I am grateful to them.”

The Metropolitan Police were called around 5.10pm on Saturday to reports that people had been injured at both locations.

The two young people were declared dead and a murder investigation was opened.

South-east London: double stab

Mr McDonagh said he was “deeply saddened and outraged by these senseless killings”.

“My thoughts and deepest condolences are with their families and friends – and of course the people of Abbey Wood and Thamesmead who I know are shocked and dismayed by what has happened.

“Days like today show why this work is so important and why I must once again ask all communities across London to work with us and our partners, so that we do everything we can together to avoid such tragedies. »

He said detectives would “work tirelessly” to provide answers to the families of the young victims. Families are supported by specialist agents.

Adding: “Any witnesses, or those who knew Charlie or Kearnie and may be able to provide information or insight into these senseless murders, are urged to contact police. »

There have been no arrests and investigations are ongoing.

Anyone with information can call 101 and quote reference 4943/26Nov. Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, online or by calling 0800 555 111.