Throughout the month of February, we’re telling the story of the 21 teenagers who were murdered in 2023. Our campaign, The 21, seeks to remember every victim as a young person with a family and their whole life ahead of them. We want to change the culture of kids carrying knives and becoming involved in violence.

This is the face of Renell Charles, a 16-year-old boy who was stabbed to death in Walthamstow in 2023.

Name: Renell Charles

Age: 16

From: Walthamstow

Here is a timeline of events and everything we know so far about his death:

Friday, May 5:

Rennell Charles, 16, who was a pupil at Kelmscott School was stabbed to death in Markhouse Road at 4.09pm.

A post-mortem examination found that the teenager had died from a stab wound to the chest.

Cllr Grace Williams, leader of Waltham Forest Council, said: “Nobody should have to deal with the loss of somebody so young and my heart goes out to the family and friends of the deceased.

“Their loss is our loss. The people of Waltham Forest and beyond will be shocked by this senseless act.”

Monday, May 8:

A 16-year-old boy appeared in custody at Stratford Magistrates’ Court where he was charged with Rennell’s murder.

Headteacher Sam Jones of Kelmscott School said the attack marked the “darkest of days” for the school community.

“A Kelmscott student was tragically killed in a senseless knife attack."

Newsquest London does not have information on any further developments on this case.