‘We are still seeking justice for him’: Information appeal for murder of Rhyhiem Ainsworth Barton

Five years on from the fatal shooting of a teenager in Kennington, detectives are asking witnesses to the murder to come forward.

Rhyhiem Ainsworth Barton was just 17-years-old when he was murdered on the evening of May 5, 2018 in a drive-by shooting. 

Rhyhiem’s mother said: “We have endured five years without Rhyhiem and our family has been broken by his death. 

“Nothing can bring him back and we are still seeking justice for him. 

“My son died needlessly and I pray that no other family has to go through the pain of losing a child in such a way.

“I am begging you to please, if you know anything about Rhyhiem’s death, come forward and speak to the police.”

Police were called at around 6pm on May 5 2018 to reports of gunshots heard in Cooks Road, Kennington.

Officers, including firearms officers, attended. 

Rhyhiem had been standing with a group of friends on the corner of John Ruskin Street and Camberwell New Road when he was shot.

To date, nobody has come forward with information.

Two people, then aged 17 and 20, were arrested on suspicion of murder in June 2018. They were released under investigation.

Detectives believe that a grey BMW Series 2 Gran Tourer with the registration WT17 CFK seen on CCTV around the time of the shooting is crucial to identifying those responsible. 

Officers are confident it is the vehicle that the suspects used to make their way to and from the area.

The vehicle was being driven on false number plates. 

Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn said: “The years that have passed will have been long and traumatic for Rhyhiem’s loved ones and it is my hope that since the murder, people who did not feel they could come forward at the time, may now be in a position to speak to us.

“It may be that allegiances or friendships have changed, or you may want to do the right thing for Rhyhiem.

“Whatever the reason, if you have information that can identify those responsible, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”

Appealing directly to Rhyhiem’s friends, DCI Blackburn added: “I’m sure that people know who fired that fatal shot. 

“Please give us the information we need to convict the people who killed your friend. We know that this would be a brave move on your part and we are here to support you in any way we can.”

Anyone with information can speak to officers directly on 0208 721 4005, call 101 or Tweet @MetCC.

To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Pictured top: Rhyhiem Ainsworth Barton (Picture: Family handout)