A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder, becoming the third teenager detained after Jamal Coombes was stabbed to death in south London. The 17-year-old victim was attacked on Glycena Road, Battersea, in the early hours of Saturday, sparking a murder investigation that has seen police take a girl and two boys into custody.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police, alongside the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance, rushed to the scene after reports of a stabbing. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, Coombes was pronounced dead at the scene. His next-of-kin have been informed and are receiving support from specialist officers.
“Three teenagers arrested after Jamal Coombes, 17, stabbed to death in Battersea, south London.”
Detectives moved quickly. On Saturday, 20 June, a 15-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl were arrested on suspicion of murder. The following day, Sunday, 21 June, a 14-year-old boy was also arrested, bringing the total to three teenagers in custody.
Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie, leading the investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain firmly with Jamal’s loved ones following his tragic death. I understand the impact this incident has had on the local community. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to speak with one of our officers on patrol in the area this week.”
Howie is now appealing directly to the public for help. Police believe there was an altercation before the fatal assault. “If you were in the Lavender Hill area between 03:30 hrs and 05:00hrs, specifically Glycena Road, Acanthus Road or Pountney Road, and witnessed a group of men running, please come forward,” he urged. “Any information, no matter how minor it may seem, could prove crucial. CCTV, doorbell or mobile phone footage may provide vital evidence. I would also urge members of the public not to assume that information has already been shared; any detail could be of significant importance to the investigation.”
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. As the investigation continues, the community is left to grapple with the loss of a teenager whose life was cut short on a London street.