16-Year-Old Charged with Murder in Luton Stabbing Incident

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with murder after the fatal stabbing of a 17-year-old boy in Luton on Friday, police have said. Four other teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of murder relating to the same incident. Officers were called to reports of violent disorder in Kingsway Recreation Ground at about 18:30 on Friday, where police said a number of teenagers were seen carrying large knives. The 17-year-old was taken to hospital with multiple stab wounds but was pronounced dead shortly after. He has not been identified. Following the stabbing, two teenage boys, a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old, were initially arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, before later being arrested on suspicion of murder. Police said on Sunday the 16-year-old has since been charged with murder and has been remanded in custody. Bedfordshire Police said the 17-year-old also arrested on Friday on suspicion of murder was being treated in hospital for serious injuries. A further three boys, all 17, have been arrested on suspicion of murder, violent disorder and carrying a weapon, police said. Det Ch Insp Nick Gardener appealed for anyone who was in the area and may have witnessed events leading up to the disorder to get in touch. "Our officers are continuing to carry out additional high-visibility patrols, and we are continuing to engage with local members of the public. "We would also like to remind the public not to share any distressing videos or images as this can be concerning for families involved, but also form a vital part of the police investigation," he added. Zanib Raja, a councillor for the Biscot Ward in Luton, has also asked people not to share alleged videos of the incident online. In a statement on Facebook, she said: "A tragic incident took place today in Kingsway Park, a place many of us grew up in, played in, and built memories in. "A place that should be safe for families, children, and every resident of our town. Instead, a man lost his life in broad daylight. A family has been shattered. Luton is hurting." Raja urged the community to come together.