Boy, 16, arrested after two teens stabbed to death in London

A teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after two other teenagers were stabbed to death just a mile apart in south-east London. 

Police were called at around 17:10 GMT on Saturday to reports that people were injured in Sewell Road, Abbey Wood and Titmuss Avenue in Thamesmead. 

The victims, both 16 years old, have been named as Kearne Solanke and Charlie Bartolo. 

Following the announcement of the arrest, Det Chief Insp Kate Blackburn said in a statement: “This is a positive development in what is a complex and fast-moving investigation. Charlie and Kearne’s families have been informed.

“Our investigation is ongoing and we continue to appeal for the public’s help as we build a picture of what happened on Saturday night.

“If you have information, no matter how insignificant you think it may be, please come forward.”

Speaking at one of the crime scenes earlier, Det Supt Richard McDonagh, said: “Homicide colleagues are investigating and are treating the two murders as linked.

“I can assure everybody affected by these murders that skilled detectives will work tirelessly to discover what happened and provide answers to the young victims and families.”

He added: “Officers are especially keen to hear from anyone who might have seen a dark-coloured SUV or 4×4 type with distinctive silver roof bars in the areas around Sewell Road or Titmuss Avenue in the days prior to the murders.”