The mother of a 15-year-old boy who was fatally stabbed with a zombie-style knife in south-east London has said "the senseless killing needs to stop".
Daejaun Campbell died after he was attacked in Woolwich on Sunday despite neighbours battling to save his life.
He pleaded with them “please don’t let me die I’m only 15” as he lay bleeding in Eglington Road.
At a vigil at the spot where he died, his mother Jodie Taylor paid tribute to her son who she told crowds was a “great kid who had a bright future ahead of him”.
She said: “How many mothers, fathers, grandparents and loved ones must go through this excruciating pain of releasing these heartbreaking statements, sharing our grief, because we have lost our children or grandchildren?”
“The brutal manner in which my baby Daejaun was taken away from us is sad - and he's not the first young person and he won't be the last - the senseless killing needs to stop.”
She went on to ask: “Why are parents burying their children when a child's place is beside their mothers?
“We must come together to bring change - solution is needed to put in its place - we must do all we can together to ensure our young ones have the brightest of futures.”
Ms Taylor said her son “was known for walking with the biggest smile and even bigger heart, he would always do his utmost best to help anyone”.
In another tribute issued through the Met, the family added: "Daejaun had a joyful spirit, full of wit and charm with the incredible ability to light up a room with his presence and impactful smile."
Jacob Losiewicz, 18, of Abbey Wood, has been charged with the schooboy’s murder. He appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court where he spoke to confirm his name, address and date of birth during the brief hearing.
He was remanded in custody and will appear at the Old Bailey on September 30.
Another man, in his 50s, was arrested on suspicion of murder in relation to the stabbing but has been released without charge.
Two others have been arrested in connection with the case.
An 18-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of murder. A boy, 15, was also detained on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and has been released on bail.
Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn, who is leading the investigation, said: "Daejaun was only 15 when he lost his life. His family are understandably devastated.
"Although officers have made a number of arrests and have charged a suspect we need to gather as much information as possible to fully understand what happened on Sunday evening.
"If you know anything, no matter how insignificant you think this information is - please tell us."Even the slightest bit of information can help us build a picture of what happened to young Daejaun.”
