Detectives have named a teenage boy who died in a collision near Orpington as they continue to appeal for witnesses who saw a Mercedes appearing to deliberately ram his moped.
Tafari Thompson-Mintah was riding a moped along Sevenoaks Way in St Paul’s Cray when he was hit by a car at around 3.30pm on Monday.
The 16-year-old, who lived nearby in Grove Park, died at the scene. His family are being supported by specialist officers.
Homicide detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command are leading the investigation.
They believe the teenager’s moped was deliberately struck by a red Mercedes car. This caused the moped to veer into the path of an orange Vauxhall Mokka car.
The driver of the Mercedes failed to stop at the scene. The car was found abandoned nearby a short time later and a hunt is underway to identify and locate the driver.
The driver of the Mokka stopped at the scene and was treated by paramedics for shock. No arrests have been made.
Detective Inspector Martin Thorpe, who is leading the investigation, said: “My thoughts are with Tafari’s family at this incredibly difficult time. We will continue to support them as our investigation progresses.
“The incident happened on a busy road near to the Nugent retail park. We have already spoken to a number of witnesses, but it is vital that anyone who saw the collision comes forward immediately.
“I would also ask drivers who were on Sevenoaks Way on Monday afternoon to check their dashcams for any footage of the moped or the red Mercedes before the collision occurred.”
Anyone who can help the investigation is asked to call 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC quoting CAD 4890/09Oct.
To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
