Arrest made following murder of teenager in Walthamstow

Detectives investigating the murder of an 18-year-old in northeast London have arrested a suspect in connection with the killing.

The Metropolitan Police said the man, also aged 18, was detained by officers on Friday evening and was taken to a police station in east London where he remains in custody.

A 16-year-old boy who was arrested in connection with the incident on Wednesday has been released under investigation.

Police were first called to reports of a stabbing on Wednesday in Walthamstow during the afternoon.

Although an ambulance quickly arrived on the scene the victim, Hussain Chaudhry, was declared dead from a stab wound to his neck.

The teenager’s mother and brother were both taken to hospital for treatment to knife wounds to their hands but have since been discharged. 

Mr Chaudhry was a first-year law student at London’s School of Oriental and African Studies, which has paid tribute to him as a “very kind and thoughtful student”.

His sister Afia Ahmed Chaudhry said in a tweet: “My beautiful baby brother left this world the same way he came in, cradled in my mother’s arms.

“He died defending his family. His eyes were bright, his face showed no pain, he was at peace. To God we belong & to Him we return. You’re home now baby, I’ll see you soon.”

“We are deeply grieved by the loss of our beloved Hussain and respectfully ask for the privacy and space to come to terms with this tragic situation,” the Hussain family said in a statement released via the police.

“We thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for their kindness, compassion, condolences, prayers and goodwill.”

Detectives leading the investigation into Mr Chaudhry’s death have again appealed for any witnesses with information to share what they know.

“I am continuing to appeal for any witnesses to come forward and speak with my team,” said Detective Chief Inspector Perry Benton. “Any piece of information could prove to be vital.”

Anybody with information has been asked to call the Met Police incident room on 020 8345 1570 or 101 and quote CAD 5697/17Mar, or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.