A teenager stabbed to death in London has been described as a ‘bundle of joy who brought light to everyone’ as two 16-year-olds have been arrested on suspicion of murder.
Police were called to the scene of a stabbing on Victoria Road in Feltham, west London, at around 5pm on Monday.
The victim, who has been named locally as Malikhai, also known as Mags, was treated for stab wounds at the scene just off Feltham High Street.
Paramedics battled to save the 18-year-old but he later died in hospital.
A friend who studied at college with the victim described him as ‘just lovely lad’ and that teachers had been ‘crying for days’ over his death.
The 18-year-old told Metro: ‘He had been at college with me but had recently left. He was a good student and everyone loved him. One of the teachers who taught him for three years had been crying for days. We are all devastated. He was a good person.’ ‘
A family friend said: ‘He has a brother they are a lovely family. He was not in a gang or anything like that he was a really nice boy. I’ve not spoken to his mother yet but she will be devastated. She loves the boy so much.’
‘You brought light to everyone around you’
Dozens of bunches of flowers and balloons have been left at the crime scene which is next to a school.
One tribute, written on a card accompanying flowers, said: ‘From a four-year-old running around the school playground to a bright warm hearted young man.
‘You really were a bundle of joy to be around, always smiling, happy and full of energy. You brought light to everyone around you. Heartbroken.’
A bunch of flowers from his parents included an envelope addressed to ‘my baby boy’.
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Another message said: ‘Thanks for all the laughs it will never be the same without you. From the laughs and memories we made basically since babies to now having to say goodbye. Forever 18.’
Another tribute said: ‘Mags, you were such a special, gentle, loving boy and you meant more to us than words could say. Our hearts are truly broken by your loss you will be missed beyond measure but not for a moment forgotten we will carry you with us in our hearts always. Sleep peacefully beautiful soul.’
The victim’s family are being supported by specialist police officers.
Police have arrested two 16-year-old boys on suspicion of murder and possession of an offensive weapon.
One was detained on Monday, and the second on Tuesday. They both remain in police custody.
The Met also arrested a 19-year-old man on Tuesday on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon in connection with the case.
A mother, who was taking her two children to school near the scene, told Metro: ‘I feel sick to the stomach that I have to pass through a crime scene to take my kids to school. How do I explain this tragedy what can I tell them? That poor boy and his family we are all heartbroken.’
Detective Chief Inspector Allam Bhangoo, who is leading the investigation, offered his ‘deepest condolences’ to the victim’s friends and family.
He said: “We understand that this incident has been distressing for the local community. I want to reassure the public that this investigation is a priority for us and I hope it offers some reassurance to know we have made three arrests.
‘Residents may see an increased police presence in the area as we undertake further enquires, however at this time we are confident there is no risk to the local community.’
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