Around a hundred people gathered at a vigil for a 16-year-old boy stabbed to death just before midnight on New Year’s Eve.
Harry Pitman was attacked in Primrose Hill while waiting to watch the fireworks with friends at around 11.40pm on Sunday (December 31).
Dozens of people, including Harry’s mum, brother and sister, gathered at Downhills Park in Tottenham yesterday (January 2) to pay their respects to the teenager.
Many carried flowers and balloons, some of which were released into the air after a round of applause.
A series of Tottenham Hotspur chants were also sung by attendees – Harry has been described by his older brother, Patrick, as a huge Spurs fan.
Speaking outside the family home in Tottenham on Monday (January 1), the 18-year-old told the MailOnline: “We are all distraught, it just doesn’t seem real.”
His sister, 19-year-old Tayla, added: “It doesn’t seem real – I keep on expecting him to come through the front door.
“His dinner is still in the oven, Mum can’t bring herself to remove it.”
Harry’s grandfather, Phillip Pitman, told ITV the boy had his “whole life ahead of him”, and that he was “just finding his way”.
Mr Pitman described his grandson as a “lovely boy” who was good with people and said that he had just started his first job, adding: “This is just such a terrible loss.”
Alex Rosen, head of Harry’s school – St Thomas More Catholic School in Wood Green – said that they had lost a “promising young soul”.
In a statement posted to the school's website, he added: “Harry touched the lives of many with his infectious laughter and enthusiasm for life.
“He will be remembered for his many qualities, particularly his resilience and the positive impact he had on those around him.”
A post-mortem examination is due to take place in the coming days, and police have appealed for witnesses to come forward.
Yesterday, another 16-year-old boy, arrested on suspicion of murder at the scene, was released from custody under investigation, the Met said.
Cllr Pat Callaghan, acting leader of Camden Council and cabinet member for safer communities, said on New Year's Day: “We are working closely with the police to support them with this investigation.
“We are also stepping up visible patrols with the police in the Primrose Hill area to provide reassurance to residents over the next few days.”
Some reporting by PA.
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