Family of teenager stabbed to death at Croydon railway station “beyond heartbroken”

The family of a teenager who was stabbed to death in a 40-second attack at Croydon railway station on Monday afternoon have paid tribute to him.

Louis Johnson, 16, was attacked on a bridge inside the station at around 4.30pm as horrified commuters looked on.

Emergency services were called 15 minutes later but Louis was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement, Louis’ grandfather and his brother Omar said: “Louis was only 16. He was tragically taken from us at such a young age. He had his whole life ahead of him, all the things that any teenager could wish for.

“Louis was generally a shy boy who kept himself to himself, but he was also very popular among his peers and has left behind many friends.

“He had one true love – Liverpool Football Club – and made sure he never missed any televised event which concerned them.

“He also loved music of every genre and didn’t care if you called him a softy for listening to love songs all day.

“Louis would always go out of his way to try and help or please others and would literally half his last piece of bread with you if you asked him.

“He leaves behind a huge family who are all devastated. We miss Louis dearly and will continue to miss him until we meet again in a better place.

“We would request that our privacy be respected through this difficult period. We are beyond heartbroken.

“Rest in perfect peace Louis Christopher John Dean Johnson.”

A 16-year-old boy was arrested on Wednesday morning in connection with the murder.

Detective Chief Inspector Sam Blackburn, who is leading the BTP investigation, said: “This was a senseless killing at an extremely busy time of the day, and my thoughts are with Louis’ family at this painfully difficult time.

“For such a young man to lose his life in these circumstances is truly devastating, and I would like to reassure everyone that a thorough investigation is well under way.

“With that in mind, we continue to appeal for anyone with information to get in touch as a matter of urgency.

“The incident was over within a matter of 40 seconds, but I know many other passengers or members of the public would have seen what happened. If you have not already spoken with police, please get in touch.

“Importantly, if you have any mobile phone or dashcam footage of the East Croydon area either just before, during or after the attack, we want to hear from you.”

You can contact BTP by sending a text to 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 395 of 27/01/2020. Or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.