A 16-year-old boy has been charged with murdering a 17-year-old who died from multiple stab wounds at a park in Luton, police said. Four other teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of the same murder.
Incident details
Bedfordshire police said officers were called to Kingsway recreation ground shortly after 6.30pm on Friday following reports that a number of teenagers were seen “carrying large knives”. The 17-year-old boy, who has yet to be identified, was taken to hospital but died a short time later.
Police said two boys, aged 16 and 17, had been arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday after they were initially arrested on suspicion of violent disorder. The younger male has since been charged with murder and remanded in custody, the force said. Another three 17-year-old boys have also been arrested, each on suspicion of murder, violent disorder and carrying a weapon.
Police appeal
DCI Nick Gardener said: “We are progressing our investigation and we are continuing to appeal to anyone who was in the area, or witnessed the events leading up to the disorder, to please get in touch. Our officers are continuing to carry out additional high-visibility patrols, and we are continuing to engage with local members of the public. We would also like to remind the public not to share any distressing videos or images as this can be concerning for families involved, but also form a vital part of the police investigation.”
Community response
Zanib Raja, a councillor in Luton, has also encouraged people not to share alleged videos of the incident online. Raja wrote on Facebook: “Like many of you, I became aware of this horrific attack through disturbing videos circulating online. Let me say this clearly: Do not share them. They traumatise the family, fuel fear, & do nothing to help.” She added: “A tragic incident took place … in Kingsway Park, a place many of us grew up in, played in, & built memories in. A place that should be safe for families, children, & every resident of our town. Instead, a man lost his life in broad daylight. A family has been shattered. Luton is hurting.”
