A 21-year-old man who was fatally stabbed at a park has been identified by police, as two teenagers have been charged with his murder. Radwan Shakur, from Wembley, north-west London, was discovered with stab injuries at Central Park in Chelmsford, Essex. Authorities were alerted around 7pm on Friday and Mr Shakur tragically died at the scene despite the best efforts of first responders.
Essex Police announced that an 18-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named due to legal restrictions, have been charged with his murder. Romeo Mfinda, 18, of Widford Chase, Chelmsford, and a 17-year-old lad, also from Chelmsford, have additionally been charged with possession with intent to supply cannabis, and possession of a knife in a public place.
Court Appearance
They made their appearance before Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on Monday. Mfinda only spoke to confirm his personal details when he appeared before magistrates, was not asked to enter pleas and no application for bail was submitted. He was remanded to appear before Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday. A court official stated the 17-year-old, who appeared separately before magistrates, was remanded in youth detention accommodation ahead of a hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday.
Family Tributes
In a statement issued through police, Mr Shakur's family portrayed him as "a kind soul loved by his family and everyone that knew him". "He had a smile that would brighten up a room," they expressed. "He had such hopes and dreams for his future. He was looking forward to going to university and the bright future ahead. Our hearts are truly broken. We will miss him."
Investigation Update
Essex Police reported that three teenagers aged 18, 17 and 14 were initially arrested on Friday evening on suspicion of murder. Following interrogation, the 18-year-old man has since been released on bail, while the 14-year-old boy has been released under investigation, the force stated. Further inquiries over the weekend identified another suspect. This led officers to the arrest of an 18-year-old man on Sunday afternoon.
Detective Inspector Lydia George, who is spearheading the investigation, said: "This was a shocking incident in a busy public park at a time when many people would have been enjoying the area, and we know it has caused significant concern within the Chelmsford community." She added: "Our thoughts remain with Radwan's family, who we continue to support at this incredibly difficult time. I would ask that the public and media please respect their ongoing request for privacy as they continue to grieve."
"Since Friday evening, detectives and specialist officers have been working around the clock to establish what happened. We have made significant progress through CCTV inquiries, speaking to witnesses and carrying out forensic work, which has led to these charges. However, our investigation remains ongoing and we continue to urge anyone with information who has not yet come forward to contact us. A dedicated public portal remains open, and any piece of information, no matter how small, could be important."
