Boy, 15, arrested on suspicion of murder over death of Harry Pitman on Primrose Hill on New Year's Eve

January 03, 2024

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murdering Harry Pitman in north London on New Year's Eve.

Harry, 16, was fatally stabbed on Primrose Hill at about 11.40pm on Sunday 31 December while waiting to watch a fireworks display.

A 15-year-old boy was held on suspicion of murder on Tuesday, while an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of affray, police said.

A 16-year-old boy who was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Harry was with a group of friends near Primrose Hill's viewing platform when he became involved in "an altercation that would have devastating consequences", detectives have said.

The Metropolitan Police said there is no evidence that Harry's killing was gang related.

Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Grogan, who is leading the investigation, added: "We are aware of speculation, especially on social media, that the attack may have been racially motivated and I can confirm that there is no indication of a racial motive.

"Despite having made three arrests, I am still very keen to hear from anyone who has footage or information that could assist our investigation.

"Similarly, I would like to thank everyone who has come forward so far - the help that you have given makes a difference."

Harry's older sister Tayla has described her brother as a "good boy" who had a "heart of gold" and would not have been involved in violence.

The 19-year-old said in a TikTok video: "We're already grieving as it is and now, on top of that, we've got people saying that our baby boy, who's a victim, an innocent victim, his death was warranted because it was gang-related when it wasn't.

"I just want everyone to know that Harry was a good boy, and he would never hurt anyone."

She added: "Harry was not in any way shape or form involved with any gangs or anyone who could cause trouble.

"He's not ever been in trouble with the police and people are making it out like Harry died because he did something wrong, when my brother's the victim here.

"And I'm sick of this narrative that's being portrayed that Harry deserved to die because he was involved, but Harry didn't deserve to die because he wasn't involved."

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Chief Superintendent Andy Carter said the Met are aware of concerns relating to the park, where locals have complained of unofficial parties and anti-social behaviour, and said there will be a heightened police presence in the coming days.

"New Year's Eve at Primrose Hill is a celebratory event that everyone should have returned safely home from. I am deeply saddened at the needless loss of another young life to knife crime," he said.

"Thousands of people attended the event and it is testament to public spirit that some of those people have come forward to assist our specialist crime colleagues by providing information."

Harry was among 21 teenagers killed in violent incidents in London in 2023, 18 of whom were stabbed.

Around 100 people, including his mother, brother and sister, gathered at Downhills Park in Haringey, north London, on Tuesday evening to pay their respects, with many carrying flowers and balloons.

Tottenham Hotspur fans are also planning to pay tribute to him on Friday evening when their team play Burnley in the FA Cup.

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