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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Lydia Chantler-Hicks

Five boys arrested on suspicion of murder after 19-year-old stabbed to death in Edgware

Five teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 19-year-old was stabbed to death in Edgware.

Stefan Valentine Balaban, 19, died after being knifed in the chest in the early hours of Friday.

On Tuesday morning five boys - four aged 16, and one 17-year-old - were arrested on suspicion of murder after warrants were executed in north London.

A Scotland Yard spokesperson said: “Stefan’s family have been informed of this development. They are being supported by specialist officers.”

Stefan Valentine Balaban (Met Police)

Police, paramedics, and an air ambulance were scrambled to Whitchurch Lane in Edgware shortly after 1am on Friday, following reports a man had been stabbed.

Despite the efforts of the emergency services, Mr Balaban died at the scene.

A post-mortem held on Saturday gave his cause of death as a stab wound to the chest.

The Met’s Specialist Crime Command is still investigating, said Scotland Yard on Tuesday.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil John, who is leading the investigation, said: “My thoughts are with Stefan’s family as they come to terms with this awful news. We will do everything we can to support them and bring whoever is responsible to justice.

“These arrests mark significant progress in what is a fast-moving investigation. We believe there are outstanding suspects and our work to trace those people continues.

“Our work is far from finished and we need the public’s help. I remain keen to hear from anyone who has information, no matter how small or insignificant it might seem.

“I would also like to hear from any drivers who was passing through the area and have dash cam footage to come forward.”

Information can be provided to the incident room by calling 020 8358 0100. Alternatively, call 101 quoting CAD 334/28Jul.

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