File photo Source: Metropolitan Police

DETECTIVES IN LONDON investigating the murder of Croydon teenager Jermaine Goupall have appealed for the public’s help to trace his killer.

At approximately 11pm on Tuesday, the 15-year-old was out with a group of friends when they were confronted by three men. Police said the men were wearing balaclavas and were armed with knives and a machete.

Detective Chief Inspector Tony Lynes, who is leading the investigation from the Homicide and Major Crime Command, said: “Jermaine tried to run away from the men, but sadly was attacked about 20 yards from the shop suffering a number of stab injuries.

“I’m really keen to hear from anyone who was out with Jermaine that night. I can understand that you may be worried about coming forward, but I would like to reassure you that experienced detectives will deal with you sensitively.

“We will help you through the process of talking to us, as it is vital we get information to help us catch the men responsible. Also, if anyone saw the attack on Jermaine please get in contact with us and tell us what you saw,” Lynes said.

Members of the public rushed to help the teenager after he was injured, before police officers and the London Ambulance Service arrived. However, he was pronounced dead at the scene shortly before midnight.

A post-mortem examination was carried out on Wednesday and gave the cause of death as a single stab wound to his leg.

Earlier altercation

Lynes said the police investigation “has also established that there was an incident in the same area as Jermaine was attacked” at around 3-4pm on Tuesday.

“This was an altercation involving a number of teenagers armed with sticks, and some on mopeds, wearing balaclavas.

One line of enquiry we are exploring is if there is a link between this incident that afternoon and the later altercation that led to Jermaine’s death.

“Jermaine’s family are devastated by his loss, my thoughts are with them at this difficult time. Please help us find the people responsible for taking their son from them,” Lynes said.

Specially trained family liaison officers are supporting the boy’s family. More information on the investigation can be read here.