Vigil held in Croydon after schoolgirl stabbed to death

A vigil has been held in Croydon following the fatal stabbing of a 15 year old.

Elianne Andam was killed on her way to school on Wellesley Road on Wednesday morning.

Emergency services were on the scene within minutes, but despite their best efforts and the efforts of members of the public, the teenager died less than an hour after the attack.

A statement was read out by Bishop of Croydon Rosemarie Mallet on behalf of the family

"We as a family are struggling to comprehend this painful tragedy that has happened to our beautiful daughter and beloved sister Elianne. Our hearts are broken.

"And we are overwhelmed by sorrow and grief. Our faith in the Lord is strengthening us.

"We would like to express our gratitude to those who have taken the time to send us thoughtful and compassionate messages and prayers.

"We kindly ask for your consideration to also respect our need for privacy as we attempt to come to grips with our deeply devastating loss.

"Elianne was a beautiful person inside and out who loved Jesus. She was intelligent, thoughtful, kind and had a bright future ahead. It is our request that you keep our cherished daughter Elianne and our family, in your thoughts and prayers."

Dozens of bunches of flowers have been left at the scene of the teenager's death amid widespread shock at the tragedy.

Police officers who were among the first at the scene and battled to try to save Elianne appeared visibly moved as they laid flowers on Thursday.

Among the floral tributes, cards and candles, one message read: "Rest in peace little princess so sad your life is taken away at your prime. You have touched my soul."

A 17-year-old boy, who knew the victim, was arrested just over an hour after the attack, which took place on busy Wellesley Road at around 8.30am.

He remains in police custody after officers were given more time to question him.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he is "shocked" and "appalled" by the killing as he called for longer sentences for people who commit "the most heinous crimes".

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