Lambeth (Parliament Politics Magazine) – 16-year-old Lathaniel Burrell shot dead in Stockwell, Lambeth. Detectives launch an investigation into the afternoon murder.
Despite paramedics’ best attempts, he was declared dead at the site. At approximately 3:21 p.m., police received a call of a shooting in Paradise Road.
With forensic teams working on the Grover Court estate, off Clapham Road, close to Stockwell tube station, cordons are still in place after emergency services, including an ambulance crew, rushed to the area.
Officers are still requesting the public’s assistance in locating the culprits, but no arrests have been made.
Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee said:
“This is a horrendous crime, which has shocked the local community and beyond. Our thoughts are with Lathaniel’s family and friends at this devastating time.
Our investigation is continuing at pace, examining CCTV and collecting witness statements.
We have deployed officers to the area on reassurance patrol, and have officers on the ground engaging with the local schools. We need the help of the public too – if you were in the local area please think back to yesterday afternoon and come forward with any information, no matter how small.
We are particularly keen to speak to anyone who has any mobile phone or dash cam footage from the area surrounding Paradise Road.”
Investigators stated that they are keeping an open mind regarding the potential reason behind the assault.
According to the BBC, a witness stated that a man dressed as a food delivery person on a motorcycle had shot the 16-year-old kid, and locals who were appalled by the death of such a young child said they knew the victim.
Florence Eshalomi, Labour (Co-op) MP for Vauxhall and Camberwell Green, said: “This is a sad, wasted life; this boy could have had so much potential. His future has been robbed.
The family and community will continue to grieve; you can never get over this shock.”
David Oxley, a local Labour councillor who lives nearby, said:
“It has deeply shocked and saddened our community and our thoughts are with the family of the victim, knowing the deep loss they must be feeling. We also really hope that the killers will quickly be brought to justice.”
Lambeth’s cabinet member for safer communities, Cllr Dr Mahamed Hashi, stated that he and other council members were in the area on Wednesday morning, providing assistance to the police and locals.
He said that they are shocked at this tragic violence in our borough in which a teenager has so cruelly been taken from us.
This is an incredibly traumatic moment for our communities, and our thoughts this morning are especially with the victim’s family, loved ones and friends.
As a council they are committed to making Lambeth one of the safest boroughs in London and are working incredibly hard to play our role in ensuring the kind of violence that has so sadly claimed this young person’s life ends, and that all our young people have a secure future here.
Cllr Dr Hashi added that he would be encouraging anyone with information that could help police to come forward and share.
It is not the first time in recent memory that the area around Clapham and Stockwell has been the scene of horrendous violence.
Two teenagers were rushed to hospital after a stabbing on the same street (Paradise Road) in August 2023. A 17-year-old boy was treated in hospital for a stab wound, while a 15-year-old boy was treated for facial injuries.
He said:
“If you are a witness or have any information, please call police on 101 with the reference 4116/4MAR.
You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 if you want to remain anonymous.”
What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of residents in Stockwell?
The Metropolitan Police has promised to keeping a visible presence in Stockwell to reassure residents and avoid further violence. Increased patrols and community involvement are part of this.
Local authorities are attempting to increase safety and foster community resilience, including Councillor Dr. Mahamed Hashi. This entails working with local organizations, schools, and residents to address the root causes of violence.
A safer environment for bicycles and pedestrians can result from initiatives like the Oval to Stockwell Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN), which aims to improve road safety and reduce traffic.
CCTV cameras are being used more often to keep an eye on and discourage criminal activity. Examining video to support current investigations is part of this.
Supporting local youth through community activities and initiatives is receiving more attention. This involves addressing gang membership and offering constructive alternatives by collaborating with youth organizations and schools.