A second teenager has been arrested on suspicion of murdering Harry Pitman, who was knifed to death while waiting to watch fireworks in London on New Year's Eve.
Harry, 16, was attacked in a “senseless act of violence” as hundreds of people gathered near the Primrose Hill viewing platform in Camden on Sunday.
Despite the efforts of the emergency services, he died at the scene in north London shortly before midnight.
A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder, but has since been released under investigation.
Scotland Yard confirmed on Wednesday afternoon a second teenager - a 15-year-old boy - was arrested on suspicion of murder on Tuesday evening.
An 18-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of affray.
"Both were taken to central London police stations where they remain at this time," said a Met spokesperson.
Earlier on Wednesday, Harry’s sister Tayla, 19, said in a TikTok video her brother was a “good boy” who had a “heart of gold”.
"He’s not ever been in trouble with the police," she said. “Our baby boy was an innocent victim...he was a hero.”The Metropolitan Police said there is no evidence 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.
“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.”
Around 100 people – including Harry’s mother, brother and sister – gathered for a vigil 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.
Harry’s grandfather, Derek Pitman, said he always worried when he saw news reports of teenagers being stabbed in London “and now it has happened to us”.
Mr Pitman, 71, told the Daily Telegraph he was always scared for him because “any innocent bystander” could be attacked. “Something has to be done,” he said.
Harry had dreamed of following his great-grandfather George Davis into the army and had set his sights on joining the SAS.
His headteacher Alex Rosen at St Thomas More Catholic School in Haringey described him as a “bright and promising young soul” who “touched lives with his infectious laughter and enthusiasm for life”.
Harry was among 21 teenagers killed in violent incidents in London last year, 18 of whom were stabbed.
Chief Superintendent Andy Carter, leading policing in Camden, said there will be increased patrols in the Primrose Hill area in the wake of the attack.
"New Year’s Eve at Primrose Hill is a celebratory event that everyone should have returned safely home from," he said. "I am deeply saddened at the needless loss of another young life to knife crime.
“Thousands of people attended the event and it is testament to public spirit that some of those people have come forward to assist our Specialist Crime colleagues by providing information.
“We are aware of local concerns relating to the park. As a partnership, we take the safety of park users seriously, and we will continue to work with Camden Council and Royal Parks to address local issues.
“Local people will notice a heightened police presence to provide reassurance in the Primrose Hill area in the coming days. If you have concerns please do approach officers and speak with them, or, if you prefer, contact your Neighbourhood Policing Team who would be happy to help you.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Harry Pitman’s family.”
Police urge anyone with information or who witnessed what happened, or who has photos or footage of the incident to get in touch.
Please call the investigation team on 020 8785 8099. You can also share information online here.
