A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a teenager was killed while waiting to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Harry Pitman, 16, died after what police described as “an altercation” as crowds gathered in Primrose Hill, Camden, north London, to watch the display.
The 15-year-old youth was arrested on Tuesday along with an 18-year-old man who was held on suspicion of affray.
Earlier on Wednesday, Harry’s sister Tayla, 19, said in a TikTok video that her brother was a “good boy” who had a “heart of gold” and would not have been involved in violence.
She said: “Harry was not in any way shape or form involved with any gangs or anyone who could cause trouble.
“He’s not ever been in trouble with the police and people are making it out like Harry died because he did something wrong when my brother’s the victim here.
“And I’m sick of this narrative that’s being portrayed that Harry deserved to die because he was involved, but Harry didn’t deserve to die because he wasn’t involved.”
The Metropolitan Police said there is no evidence that the killing was gang-related, or racially motivated.
Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Grogan said: “Harry had been with a group of friends near the viewing platform on Primrose Hill where they had gathered to celebrate the New Year and watch the firework display.
We are aware of speculation, especially on social media, that the attack may have been racially motivated and I can confirm that there is no indication of a racial motive
“It was there that Harry became involved in an altercation that would have devastating consequences.“We are aware of speculation, especially on social media, that the attack may have been racially motivated and I can confirm that there is no indication of a racial motive.
“Despite having made three arrests, I am still very keen to hear from anyone who has footage or information that could assist our investigation.
“Similarly, I would like to thank everyone who has come forward so far – the help that you have given makes a difference.”
Detectives investigating the murder of Harry Pitman have made a further two arrests
— Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) January 3, 2024
DCI Grogan: “I am still very keen to hear from anyone who has info that could assist our investigation. Similarly, I would like to thank everyone who has come forward.”https://t.co/k4km0UmCUr
Around 100 people – including Harry’s mother, brother and sister – gathered at Downhills Park in Haringey, north London, on Tuesday evening to pay their respects to the teenager, with many carrying flowers and balloons.
Tottenham Hotspur fans are also planning to pay tribute to him on Friday evening when their team play Burnley in the FA Cup.
In the emotional video, Tayla said: “We’re already grieving as it is and now, on top of that, we’ve got people saying that our baby boy, who’s a victim, an innocent victim, his death was warranted because it was gang-related when it wasn’t.
“I just want everyone to know that Harry was a good boy, and he would never hurt anyone.”
Harry was among 21 teenagers killed in violent incidents in London last year, 18 of whom were stabbed.
A 16-year-old who was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder has been released under investigation, and police have appealed for witnesses.
