A 14-year-old boy died after being stabbed on a London bus, prompting an outpouring of grief and a renewed focus on youth violence. Mary Bokassa, the victim's mother, described the devastating moment police informed her of her son's death, stating it mirrored her deepest fear.
The stabbing occurred on a 472 double-decker bus in Woolwich, London, at approximately 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Kelyan Bokassa succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.
Bokassa's mother recounted the profound sense of loss and helplessness she experienced, highlighting the alarming frequency of violent incidents in her community. "Every time I go into Woolwich, I see police investigating a stabbing," she said, expressing a pervasive feeling of vulnerability. "It feels so surreal."
Describing her son as a "generous young boy," Bokassa shared anecdotes about his kind nature and recent acts of compassion. He had even written "I love you mum" in her lipstick on a balcony wall. Her poignant testimony underscores the devastating impact of this senseless violence.
Police launched a manhunt for the perpetrator, with no arrests made as of yet. Authorities indicated ongoing investigations. The school where the victim had briefly attended in 2022 expressed condolences and offered support to students affected by the tragedy.
London's Mayor, Sadiq Khan, condemned the attack as "heart-breaking violence" and assured increased police presence in the area to enhance public safety. He urged anyone with information to contact the authorities. Statistics revealed a decrease in teenage deaths in London last year compared to 2023, but the loss of a 14-year-old marks another tragic incident.
