By Lucy Caulkett-
The 15-year-old girl tragically killed in a brutal stabbing in Croydon, South London, has been named as Elianne Andam, The incident, which occurred on her way to school, has shocked the community and sparked an outpouring of condolences.
Elianne Andam tragically met her fate on Wednesday morning while making her way to the Old Palace of John Whitgift school for girls, where she was a student.
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The incident unfolded on a busy south London street during the morning rush hour, adding to the horror and shock experienced by witnesses and the local community.
A 17-year-old boy, who the police say was acquainted with the victim, was swiftly arrested nearly five miles away in New Addington on suspicion of murder, just over an hour after the attack. He currently remains in custody as the investigation unfolds.
Sir Mark Rowley, the head of the Metropolitan police, personally attended the crime scene and described the killing as “impossible to comprehend.”
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Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said he was “absolutely heartbroken” by the death.
“My thoughts and prayers are with this young girl’s family and friends, and the whole community, at this unimaginably awful time,” he said
The tragic loss of Elianne Andam has deeply affected her family and the community, leaving them struggling to come to terms with this devastating event.
Friends of the family at the scene have confirmed the young girl’s identity, and a spokesperson for Elianne’s family released a poignant statement, saying, “Our hearts are broken by the senseless death of our daughter. Elianne was the light of our lives. She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her.
She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family.”
In response to this tragic event, a memorial has emerged near the site where Elianne was stabbed, adorned with over 40 bunches of flowers, cards, and candles.
Flowers and cards have been placed near the scene where the stabbing took place in Croydon, south London, at about 08:30 BST on Wednesday.
well wisher leaves flowers on the scene Image:PA
A witness said the victim was stabbed in the neck with a foot-long knife. The motive for the stabbing has not been established.
A boy aged 17, believed to be known to the victim, was arrested shortly after the girl died at 09:21.
Witnesses said there had been an argument with a boy who tried to give the girl or her friend flowers.
The Metropolitan Police urged those with information or footage of the attack to come forward.
Ch Sup Andy Brittain said officers were supporting the girl’s family who were “facing the most tragic of news”.
“I am in contact with the local community, who are clearly as concerned as we are about this tragic incident,” he added.
“Within 75 minutes a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington, and remains in custody.”F
The messages on the cards express condolences and sorrow, with one reading, “Rest in peace angel, condolences to your family at this very sad time,” and another lamenting, “So sad your life is taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul.”
The Old Palace of John Whitgift school, where Elianne was a student, expressed deep shock and grief in a statement, describing her as a “much-loved and valued friend and pupil.” The school also pledged support for its students as they grapple with this unimaginably distressing news.
Anthony King, the chair of My Ends, a project dedicated to combating youth violence in Croydon, has been with the girl’s family after the incident and has noted their profound heartbreak.
He emphasized that Elianne had a bright future ahead of her and was in her GCSE year, highlighting the devastating potential that has been tragically cut short.
Witnesses or anyone with information have been urged to contact the police, quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep. Those who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online.
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