Detectives from the Metropolitan Police have released the names and images of two young men they wish to speak to in connection with the murder of 23-year-old Elijah Seriki in Hackney, east London. Cavalli Harriott, 22, and Jayqwan Stevens-Burke, 23, are being sought as part of the investigation into the fatal stabbing that occurred near Mossbourne Community Academy on Monday, July 13.
Victim and Incident Details
Elijah Seriki was stabbed shortly after 1:40pm near the school and later died in nearby Hackney Downs despite the efforts of paramedics from the London Ambulance Service. Police were called to the scene following reports of a stabbing. The Metropolitan Police have stated that no arrests have been made at this stage, and the investigation is continuing.
Suspects and Appeal
Cavalli Harriott is from Hackney, while Jayqwan Stevens-Burke frequents both Hackney and Grays, Essex. Detective Chief Inspector Dave Whellams, leading the investigation, said: "We continue to carry out extensive enquiries to build up a picture of the events of that afternoon. We are now appealing to the public to help us progress our investigation and would urge anyone who knows the whereabouts of Cavalli Harriott and/or Jayqwan Stevens-Burke to contact police." Anyone with information should call 101 with reference 4139/13Jul or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Police and Community Response
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, who leads policing for the area, said: "We understand that this incident occurred close to a school in broad daylight which will be hugely concerning for local residents. We don't believe this to involve any pupils at the school and are treating this as an isolated incident. We will continue to update the community when we can." Mayor of Hackney, Zoë Garbett, described the victim's death as "shocking and saddening", adding: "We know that our residents will be worried and upset, and we are offering our support to those affected by this incident. Our teams are ready to provide assistance to the police in their investigation as needed."
