Mourning friends and family raise almost £6,000 for Croydon teenage stabbing victim Zaian Aimable-Lina

Family and friends of a 15-year-old murder victim have raised almost £6,000 for a memorial for the teenager.

Zaian Aimable-Lina was stabbed in the heart in Croydon on December 30, 2021.

He was pronounced dead at the scene in Ashburton Park at 7.36pm – he had already lost a lot of blood when he was found in the park by friends who had “heard a scream” as they made their way to meet him.

Olivia Aimable-Lina, a family member, said in the fundraiser: “Zaian was a beautiful soul, loved by many and had a huge influence on so many lives.

“Our family have been encouraged to start this gofundme to give everyone who wishes to contribute to his memory the chance to do so.

“At only 15 years old he still had so much left to do. We are all in pain at this loss but know he will live on in all of our minds and hearts, we all have a lot to do to make him proud – we know he’ll be watching.”

A GoFundMe fundraiser aims “to give everyone who wishes to contribute to his memory the chance to do so”. The family’s final request on the page reads: “Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.”

Olivia said she spoke on behalf of the family when she told MyLondon: “We are comforted by remembering such a talented, creative and loving child. As we continue his legacy, we will continue to #smilelikezaian.”

One donor, Graham Willard, of Beddington Albion Football Club, who contributed £140, said: “Rest in peace Zaian. It was a pleasure to have known you, as part of our football team Beddington Albion F. C. You’ll always be in our hearts. All our thoughts and prayers are with your family & friends. ❤️ Graeme, Harry, Kai, Ollie, Sahal, Alfie, Bailey.”

A friend, Andre Stubbs, said: “Zaian im gonna miss you bro, school wont be the same with out you there all ways happy and full of jokes. Im still in shock and wish I wasnt writting this, fly high Zeds. My thoughts go out to your family.”

Another donor, Hermine Ngo Bissai, said: “Our hearts go out to this family and we hope they find much needed strength and courage during this difficult time. May Zaian rest in peace.”

And Nadia Mussani said: “Am deeply traumatised and shocked with yet another life lost at the hands of youth violence. No one deserves this, may his parents find the inner strength to get through this. Love to you all. May Allah rest his soul and bring him peace to another level.”