A 16-year-old boy who was fatally stabbed in Thornton Heath last week has been named as Damarie Omare Roye (pictured).

His father Dwayne Roye, 41, described his son as a “respectful, loving boy” who had never been in trouble with the police.

The investigation in to his murder has so far led to two arrests, but detectives continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward with information.

On Thursday, Byron Whyne, 19, from Croydon, was charged  with murder at Bromley Magistrates’ Court.

Damarie is the 22nd teenager killed in London this year, 20 of whom died in knife attacks. 

The teenager had applied for an engineering course after leaving the Oasis Academy Shirley Park in Croydon where this week tributes were paid to the youngster.

Shortly before 3pm on Friday July 9, Demarie was taken to a south London hospital by members of the public who had found him injured in the street.

Damarie had been stabbed and was in a serious condition. He underwent treatment but despite the efforts of medical staff, he died in hospital on Sunday July 11.

A post-mortem examination was carried out on Wednesday July 14,   at Croydon Mortuary and found the cause of death to have been a stab wound. His family are being supported by specialist officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn, who is leading the investigation, said: “Damarie was a young man who was popular among those that knew him. His death has caused unimaginable devastation to his family and friends.

“The investigation into his murder is moving at a fast pace and I continue to appeal for witnesses that were in or around Bensham Manor Road on Friday, 9 July at around 2.45pm to contact us.

“We believe that Damarie may have been riding a blue mountain bike before the attack. Anyone that may have seen him in the area – with or without the bike – or who witnessed the attack, is urged to get in touch with the police.

Police believe he was stabbed on Bensham Manor Road near the junction with Swain Road in Thornton Heath following an altercation with two males on a moped.

Both roads along with Marion Road were cordoned off on Friday and all day Saturday as forensic teams, supported by dog teams and the police helicopter scoured the area. Officers were seen searching the drains  looking for the weapon.

Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn added: “I am also asking members of the community if they have seen a dark coloured moped concealed, abandoned, parked or even being ridden around the Thornton Heath area before or after the murder. This moped may or may not have had a number plate on it.

“If you know where the moped is or have any other information that could be useful to our investigation – no matter how insignificant it may seem – please get in touch with us immediately.”

On Monday, officers arrested two men at an address in the Croydon area.

A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody at a south London police station.

A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs. He was later further arrested on suspicion of murder. He has since been released under investigation.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigating officers is urged to call police on 101 or tweet @MetCC, providing the reference 4198/09JUL.

Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, by calling 0800 555 111.

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