A 14-year-old boy who was shot dead in south-east London has been named by police as Eghosa Ogbebor.
The shooting happened on Lord Warwick Street in Woolwich at about 3:40pm on Thursday, according to the Metropolitan Police. Emergency services were called to the scene, and paramedics treated the boy, but he was pronounced dead at the location. His family has been informed and is receiving support from specially trained officers.
Police said two boys, aged 14 and 16, and an 18-year-old man have been arrested on suspicion of murder. Detectives have urged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward, including anyone who may have relevant CCTV or dashcam footage.
The area remained cordoned off on Friday, with a strong police presence in place. Floral tributes were left near the scene, while forensic officers continued their work along the street.
Witnesses described scenes of panic when the shooting occurred. Staff at a nearby pub, The Greyhound, said customers rushed inside after hearing what sounded like a gunshot. One worker said she heard a loud bang and saw a teenager running through the pub’s patio area. She said several customers became frightened and quickly moved indoors as the situation unfolded.
Local residents said the incident was deeply shocking. One woman who lives on Lord Warwick Street said it felt unreal to walk through the neighbourhood the following day. Another resident and local business owner said a shooting was especially disturbing in an area where serious violence has already been a concern.
Detective Chief Inspector Lucie Card said police understand the concern the incident has caused in the community and confirmed that the investigation is continuing at pace. She added that an increased police presence will remain in the area.
London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan also described the killing as heartbreaking and said there was no place for such violence in the city.