Woodford Bridge stabbing: ‘Not to do with an argument about a tracksuit’

Two knives that were recovered near the scene of the stabbing. Police now believe they were left there after the incident and have nothing to do with the stabbing. Photo: John Stillwell/PA (Image: PA Wire/Press Association Images)

The 16-year-old was stabbed to death on Saturday night outside a friend’s birthday party in the Ashton Playing Fields social club, in Chigwell Road.

Police believe former King Solomon student Charlie got in an argument with four young men before one stabbed him.

They fled down Chigwell Road.

Charlie, from Collier Row, died at 10.40pm at Whipps Cross Hospital later that night.

So far no arrests have been made.

The Recorder can reveal the row was not to do with a tracksuit, as several national newspapers have reported.

Senior investigating officer Det Ch Insp Mark Lawson explained: “We are still trying to ascertain the motive, although we now know it was not to do with an argument about a tracksuit. That [argument] was at least two years old.

“The boy was from stable background, this is not gang related I want to make that point.”

He added the attack was also not related to some of the youth violence which has occurred in Woodford Green over the past few years.

Det Ch Insp Lawson did say police believe Charlie and his attackers knew each other.

He continued: “We have recovered the murder weapon. Some newspapers ran photos of two other knives, we think they were dumped there at a much later stage. We do not believe they have anything to do with the incident.”

The senior officer also appealed for Charlie’s friends “not to seek retribution”.

He added: “We are aware that there were over 100 people at the well organised party by the parents.

“We are appealing to all party goers to come forward, they will be dealt with anonymously if they want.”

Anyone who can help is asked to contact the incident room on 020 8358 0200 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.