CCTV shows moment teenager fatally stabbed
Police have released “shocking” CCTV footage showing the moment a teenager was stabbed in the chest as he was cycling in Islington, north London.
Warning: the film contains footage viewers may find distressing
Alan Cartwright, 15, managed to continue cycling a short distance after the attack in Caledonian Road in Islington, north London, on Friday, but soon collapsed and was pronounced dead at the scene later. A second suspect is shown lunging at one of the teenager’s friends and knocking him off his bike.
A third is seen crossing the road and grabbing another friend to pull him off his bike. A post-mortem examination yesterday concluded that the cause of Alan’s death was a single stab wound to the chest.
‘Truly shocking’
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Jones, who is leading the investigation for the Homicide and Major Crime Command, appealed for help in identifying the three suspects.
“The footage of the suspects attacking Alan and his friends is truly shocking. Alan stood no chance of defending himself against his attacker, who casually stepped out in front of him and stabbed him in the chest.
The footage of the suspects attacking Alan and his friends is truly shocking. Alan stood no chance of defending himself. Met Police
“Identifying and arresting the suspects is our absolute priority. We are working tirelessly and the investigation is moving at a fast pace.
“It is obvious from the footage that Caledonian Road is busy with cars and pedestrians. We have already spoken to a number of witnesses who have provided helpful information to the investigation. However, I would like to re-appeal to anyone who may know something about Alan’s murder and the robbery of the bikes.
‘Stolen bikes’
“Where are the two bicycles that were taken? Someone may have noticed a new bike brought home or perhaps you have been offered a similar bike for sale? If so, I would urge you to contact the police.
“I would like to reassure anyone who is worried about contacting the police that they will be treated with the utmost sensitivity.”
All three suspects are described by police as male youths who were wearing dark tops and had their faces partly covered.
The bicycles stolen during the stabbing were a red mountain bike and a black and red pedal cycle.
