Two more arrests after schoolboy with 'joyful spirit' killed

Daejuan's family paid tribute to his "calming nature and enthusiastic attitude"

The 15-year-old schoolboy's family say he had "a joyful spirit"
Author: Aileen O'SullivanPublished 27th Sep 2024

Two teenagers have been arrested after a 15-year-old schoolboy with "a joyful spirit" was stabbed to death in south-east London.

An 18-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of murdering Daejaun Campbell, who cried out "I'm 15, don't let me die" after being stabbed with a zombie knife.

A boy, 15, was also arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and has been released on bail.

The Metropolitan Police said it was called at about 6.35pm on Sunday to Eglinton Road, Woolwich, where they found Daejuan with a stab injury.

Despite the efforts of officers and paramedics, he died at the scene a short time later.

"biggest smile and even bigger heart"

In a statement issued via police, Daejuan's family paid tribute to his "calming nature and enthusiastic attitude", saying he would "manifest a happy atmosphere" among his friends and relatives.

They said: "Daejaun was known for walking with the biggest smile and even bigger heart, he would always do his up most best to help anyone.

"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."

His family went on to call for end to "this senseless killing" and called for change to "ensure our young have the brightest of futures".

Remanded in custody

On Thursday, a man appeared at Bromley Magistrates' Court charged with the murder of the schoolboy.

Jacob Losiewicz, 18, of Abbey Wood, south-east London, appeared in person and 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.

Police said a post-mortem examination revealed that Daejaun died from a sharp force trauma to the left thigh.

Fresh Appeal

On Thursday evening, offices renewed their appeal for information relating to Daejaun's murder.

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.

"You can contact Crimestoppers anonymously if you are afraid of speaking to us."

Police have urged anyone with information or video footage to contact them on 0208 721 4005 quoting Operation Baghaze.

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.