Police have launched a murder investigation after a man died in hospital nearly a fortnight after being stabbed in Walthamstow.
Officers rushed to Brandon Road shortly after 6pm on February 22, following reports of an altercation between a group of men.
A man in his 30s was found at the scene with stab wounds to his back and arm, and rushed to hospital in a life-threatening condition.
Two teenagers were also found with stab injuries nearby in Stocksfield Road. Their conditions were assessed as not life-threatening and they were later arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Scotland Yard has now confirmed the man in his 30s died in hospital on Monday, 12 days after the attack - prompting the force to upgrade their probe to a murder investigation.
Jason Adinkra, 18, of Hythe Close in Edmonton, was charged on February 25 with attempted murder on February 25.
Vhalery Oum Bassanga, 19, from Waltham Forest, was charged on March 1 with attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon.
Both men have appeared in court, where they were remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on March 27.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers said on Tuesday: “Sadly the victim, who had been in hospital since the attack, has died.
“My thoughts are with his family and friends as they come to terms with this terrible loss, they continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
“As such, our inquiry is now a murder investigation.
“Two men have previously been charged with attempted murder and, following the death, we will now consult with Crown Prosecution Service about the appropriate charge. I would also reiterate my earlier appeal for information, a young man has died and his family have the right to know what happened to him.
“I ask anyone who has not yet spoken with us to come forward or to contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously. The information you provide may be vital to bringing those responsible to justice.”
The stabbing on February 22 came a week after four people were knifed in a separate mass stabbing in Walthamstow on February 13.
Three of the victims were found inside The Duke Pub in Wood Street while a fourth was found close by in Shernhall Street with a stab wound to his neck. A man was later arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Following news on Tuesday that the victim of February 22 has died, Chief Superintendent Simon Crick, responsible for local policing in north-east London, said: “I am deeply saddened by anther needless death of a young man in our community.
“My thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the victim’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.
“I am also deeply concerned about the effect such incident have on our communities. You will continue to see heightened police presence in the immediate vicinity over the coming days. Please, if you have concerns, speak with your officers who are there to listen and reassure.”
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to call the Major Incident Room on 020 8345 3715.
Alternatively, call 101 quoting CAD 5668/22Feb. You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
