Two teenagers have been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of Kalabe Legesse in Peckham Rye Park.
A nineteen-year-old man and sixteen-year-old boy were arrested on suspicion of murder yesterday (Thursday, January 19). Both remain in custody.
Kalabe, 29, was “sitting in the park minding, his own business” when he was stabbed outside the cafe on Strakers Road, at around 8pm on Friday, December 30.
A post-mortem examination found the cause of death to be a haemorrhage and a stab wound to the heart.
Police immediately launched an investigation to find the perpetrators of the “brutal and senseless attack”.
A public appeal said they were seeking two suspects who fled the scene on pedal bikes towards Peckham Rye after the attack.
Detective Chief Inspector Katherine Goodwin, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “Kalabe’s family and friends have been left devastated by his death, which occurred after a brutal and senseless attack when he was simply sitting in the park, minding his own business.”
On Friday, January 6, a candlelit vigil was held in Peckham Rye Park at the spot where Kalabe was killed.
“Violence will not have the last word”: Candlelit vigil held for man killed in Peckham Rye Park
Speaking at the vigil, Rev Dele Ogunyemi of St Anthony and St Silas said “violence must be challenged” and the community would “stand shoulder to shoulder”.
The investigation is ongoing and police are still appealing for witnesses.
Anyone who saw the incident, or who has information about what happened, is asked to call 101 with the reference 6165/30DEC22.
Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.