Teenager pleads not guilty to New Year's Eve murder in London

Harry Pitman was stabbed while watching fireworks with his friends in Primrose Hill

Author: Liam ArrowsmithPublished 9th Apr 2024

A teenager has pleaded not guilty to murdering a 16-year-old boy who was stabbed to death in north London as he watched fireworks on New Year's Eve.

Harry Pitman was near a viewing platform in Primrose Hill Park with his friends when he was allegedly attacked with a hunting knife, just minutes before midnight.

Nearby police officers gave him first aid before paramedics arrived but he died at the scene shortly before midnight.

The incident happened within metres of the emergency services present at the event.

A 17-year-old boy, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, is charged with murder and possession of an offensive weapon, a knife, in Primrose Hill Park.

On Tuesday, he appeared at the Old Bailey for a plea hearing before Mr Justice Cavanagh.

Speaking quietly, the defendant confirmed his identity and pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.

In the courtroom, a member of the victim's family became emotional and cried out as the teenager denied murder, before apologising for the outburst.

The defendant was not in the dock, having attended court via video-link.

He faces a trial from September 2, which is expected to take up to six weeks.

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