Teenager accused of attacking Vijay Patel, 49, after an argument over cigarette papers in a store in Mill Hill, north London

This article is more than 2 years old

This article is more than 2 years old

A 16-year-old boy has appeared in court charged with the murder of a shop assistant.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested on Monday after the death of Vijay Patel, 49, in Mill Hill, north London.

He appeared at Willesden magistrates court on Wednesday and spoke only to confirm his identity and address. He is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on Friday.

Police were called to the incident at Rota Express convenience store in The Broadway at about 11.45pm on Saturday.

Patel, a father of two, died the following day. It is thought he was attacked after an argument over cigarette papers.

Detectives have appealed for information from potential witnesses. Three people are believed to have been involved in the incident.