A teenage boy has been found stabbed to death after police were called to reports of a shooting in south London.

Officers have launched a murder investigation following the death of the 16-year-old victim, who police believe was stabbed rather than shot.

They were called along with the London Ambulance Service to an incident in the Tulse Hill area just before 11pm on Monday.

They found the boy unconscious in the street.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, he was pronounced dead at 11.41pm.


Image: Police and paramedics found the boy unconscious in the Tulse Hill area

"At this early stage, it is believed the boy's injuries are stab rather than gunshot wounds," said the Metropolitan Police in a statement.

"A post-mortem examination will be arranged in due course. The Homicide and Major Crime Command have been informed and will lead the investigation."

The teenager's next of kin have been informed.

No arrests have been made and inquiries continue.

Image: Police believe the boy was stabbed rather than shot

The latest investigation comes after police said hundreds of extra officers would be on the beat after four fatal stabbings in five days in London.

Metropolitan Police Commander Stuart Cundy said the plan followed a "terrible" few days in the capital, which brought the total number of murders this year to 118.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said of the latest fatal stabbing: "This is a tragedy for his family and friends - and yet another senseless and violent loss of life."

He added: "The police need the support from local communities to take these weapons and dangerous people off our streets."

Police are urging witnesses to the latest incident to call 101 quoting the reference CAD 8349/05 Nov. Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.