A teenager has been arrested on suspicion of murder as more details of a boy, 16, who was stabbed to death at Primrose Hill on New Year's Eve are emerging.
Harry Pitman, 16, was killed on as crowds gathered, shortly before the countdown to midnight at 11.40pm.
The Metropolitan Police previously said a male was arrested, but in a new update, the force has specified that a 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody at a north London police station.
It is believed that Harry was with a group of friends near the viewing platform overlooking the London skyline to celebrate the start of 2024.
Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Grogan, who is leading the investigation said: "My thoughts and sympathies are with Harry's family and friends at this difficult time. He was a young man with the rest of his life ahead of him.
"His family are understandably devastated and specially trained officers are supporting them as they come to terms with their loss.
"A dedicated team of detectives are working hard to establish the events that led to such a senseless act of violence. We are reviewing CCTV footage from the area and are carrying out a forensic examination of the scene.
"We know Harry was with a group of friends near the viewing platform on Primrose Hill where they had gathered to celebrate the New Year. It is here where we believe Harry became involved in an altercation with devastating consequences.
"Primrose Hill was very busy at the time and I believe there are people who witnessed the incident who have not yet spoken to police.”
Neighbourhood group Primrose Hill Watch has estimated that nearly 20,000 to 50,000 people were in attendance to watch the fireworks from the park.
Numbers attending #PrimroseHill last night to watch fireworks on NYE were huge. Estimates coming in range from 20,000 - 50,000 pic.twitter.com/9utvtcIsD6
— Primrose Hill Watch (@PrimroseWatch) January 1, 2024
Throughout today (January 1), police and forensic investigators were seen around the area, with access blocked off to the park.
Litter left behind from the New Year celebrations was seen scattered across the area as it remains within the crime scene.
A single white forensics tent could be seen near the top of the hill by the viewpoint.
DCI Grogan continued: “It is vital that we build a clear picture of the moments leading up to, and immediately after, Harry's murder and I need anyone with information about the altercation, or the attack, to contact us immediately."
Officers believe the area was busy with people at the time. If you saw what happened or have information, mobile phone footage or other material that can help police, call 101 or contact @MetCC on X / Twitter, referencing CAD 6649/31 Dec.
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