15-year-old girl stabbed to death ‘on way to school’ as teenage boy arrested

A teenage boy has been arrested after a 15-year-old girl was stabbed to death this morning, reportedly while on her way to school.

Emergency services were called at around 8.30am to Wellesley Road, Croydon, just outside the Whitgift shopping centre.

Met officers, the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance attended. Despite their efforts, the girl died at the scene at around 9.20am.

Police said it was thought the pair may have known each other.

Footage from the scene posted to social media shows huge numbers of emergency services vehicles parked outside the Whitgift shopping centre, next to a stationary bus.

Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, in charge of local policing, said: “Our immediate thoughts are with this young girl’s family, who are facing the most tragic of news. Our officers are with the girl’s family to support them.

“I am in contact with the local community, who are clearly as concerned as we are about this tragic incident. I shall continue to update them throughout the day.

“My officers were immediately on scene to provide first aid and support paramedics.

“Acting on information provided to them, officers also worked closely with colleagues from across the Met and the British Transport Police to track a teenager in connection with the stabbing.

“I can confirm that an arrest was made at about 9.45am in the Croydon area. At this early stage we believe that he may have known her.

“A crime scene will be in place for some time, and I am grateful for the cooperation of residents.”

A spokesman for the Met said: “Anyone who witnessed the attack or has information that can help officers is asked to call police via 101 quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep.

“To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Pictured top: Emergency services at the scene near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon (Picture: PA)