Two teenagers have been charged with murder following the death of a 21-year-old man in what police described as a 'shocking incident' in an Essex park. Radwan Shakur, from Wembley, north-west London, was found with fatal stab wounds at Central Park in Chelmsford on Friday evening.
Essex Police said officers were called at around 7pm on June 12, and despite the efforts of first responders, Mr Shakur died at the scene. The force confirmed that an 18-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, have been charged with his murder.
Romeo Mfinda, 18, of Widford Chase, Chelmsford, and a 17-year-old boy, also from Chelmsford, have additionally been charged with possession with intent to supply cannabis and possession of a knife in a public place. They appeared before Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on Monday.
Mfinda spoke only to confirm his personal details and was not asked to enter pleas. No application for bail was made, and he was remanded to appear before Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday. A court official stated that the 17-year-old, who appeared separately, was remanded in youth detention accommodation ahead of a hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday.
In a statement released through police, Mr Shakur's family paid tribute to him, describing him as 'a kind soul loved by his family and everyone that knew him.' They added: 'He had a smile that would brighten up a room. 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.'
Essex Police said three teenagers aged 18, 17, and 14 were initially arrested on Friday evening on suspicion of murder. Following questioning, the 18-year-old man has been released on bail, while the 14-year-old boy has been released under investigation. Further inquiries over the weekend led to the arrest of another 18-year-old man on Sunday afternoon.
Detective Inspector Lydia George, leading 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. 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.'
She added: '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.'
