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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Anthony France and Lydia Chantler-Hicks

Harry Pitman: Two teenage boys arrested on suspicion of murdering 16-year-old

Two teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of murdering 16-year-old Harry Pitman during New Year’s Eve celebrations in north London.

Harry was stabbed to death as he waited to watch fireworks from a viewpoint in Primrose Hill surrounded by thousands of revellers.

The 16 and 17-year-old males were detained last night following a police public appeal to find two people pictured near the scene around 11.40pm on December 31.

Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Grogan, leading the investigation, said there was no racial or gang-related element to Harry’s murder, with enquiries indicating it began with a spontaneous fight between two strangers.

He added: “This is a fast-paced investigation, and my team is working around the clock to identify those responsible.

“This is clearly a significant development, and we are keeping Harry’s family informed.

“I would also like to thank everyone who has come forward so far, the response from the public has been exceptional.”

Three teenagers aged 15, 16 and 18 have previously been arrested and released on bail in connection with the killing.

Police officers conducting a search near the scene of Harry's murder (PA)

Tottenham Hotspur fans are set to pay tribute to the teenager during Frida night’s FA Cup tie against Burnley.

Manager and father-of-three Ange Postecoglou said he could not contemplate the grief experienced by Harry’s family.

He said: “You don’t even want to be thinking about the circumstances of the family and again where we are as a society.

“If [a tribute] gives them even the smallest crumb of comfort, then it’s the least we can do and our fans can do.

“It’s just tragic and inconceivable that people and families still have to suffer this grief.”

On Wednesday, Harry’s sister Tayla, 19, said her sibling was a “good boy” with a “heart of gold” who would not have been involved in violence.

Harry dreamed of following his great-grandfather George Davis into the Army and had set his sights on joining the SAS.

His headteacher Alex Rosen at St Thomas More Catholic School described him as a “bright and promising young soul” who “touched lives with his infectious laughter and enthusiasm for life”.

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