Elianne Andam: Boy, 17, charged with murder of schoolgirl in Croydon

A boy, 17, has been arrested and charged with the murder of the school girl Elianne Andam, 15, who was stabbed to death on her way to school in Croydon, south London. 

The teenager will appear in youth court later, sitting at Croydon Magistrates’ Court.

A vigil was held on Thursday evening on Wellesley Road. 

Met Police have said a knife has been recovered in nearby Cedar Road. 

The boy was known to Elianne. He has also been charged with possession of a knife. 

Elianne had just got off a bus with a group of friends when she was attacked. 

‘Struggling to comprehend’

A statement issued on behalf of Elianne’s family said: “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.”

The statement added: “Elianne was a beautiful person inside and out who loved Jesus. She was intelligent, thoughtful, kind and had a bright future ahead.”