This is the first picture of a teenager fatally shot in north London as friends said he would be “forever in their hearts” following the fatal attack on Great Cambridge Road.
Keanu Harker, aged 18, died on Thursday after being shot on Great Cambridge Road, Enfield.
Running for His Life
Witnesses described how the victim was chased by a man on a bicycle before being shot multiple times.
“The lad was running for his life. He hid behind a van,” a 63-year-old witness told Metro.
The witness, who did not want to be named, added: “Then I heard three shots. Two in quick succession then another.”
Fatal Attack
The shooting occurred at approximately 8:45 PM on Thursday evening. Met officers rushed to the scene alongside paramedics who treated Keanu at the scene.
He was taken to hospital where he died from his injuries.
“Then the boy was lying on the road,” the witness continued.
Swift Police Response
Officers described how police arrived quickly at the scene.
There were loads of police on the scene quickly. It was absolute horror,” the witness said.
Another witness confirmed: “The boy was being chased down. Because he was on foot he couldn’t get away.”
Two Arrests Made
A 17-year-old – who cannot be named for legal reasons – was arrested on Sunday, 29 July, in connection with the shooting.
He will appear before Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 1 July, charged with murder.
Another suspect – aged 24 – was arrested on Monday, 30 June, on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. He is being held in police custody.
Family Support
Keanu’s family continues to be supported by specialist officers following the tragedy.
Friends and family of the victim have laid tributes at the scene in his memory.
One card reads: “You are forever in our hearts … never forgotten … you will be missed.”
Police Investigation
Detective Chief Superintendent Caroline Haines issued a statement about the ongoing investigation.
“Our thoughts remain with Keanu’s family and friends, and anyone else affected by his death,” she said.
“This is a shocking incident to happen in any community.”
Appeal for Information
Police are working at pace to ensure those responsible are held to account.
“We are working at pace to ensure that those responsible for Keanu’s death are held to account,” DCS Haines added.
The senior officer urged anyone with information to come forward immediately.
Online Speculation Warning
Authorities warned the public against speculating about the incident on social media.
I would urge anyone who could assist us with our investigation to contact police immediately and to refrain from speculating about this incident online,” DCS Haines stated.
She added that anonymous tips could be provided through Crimestoppers.
Isolated Incident
Police have sought to reassure the local community about the nature of the attack.
We’d like to once again reassure the community that this appears to be an isolated incident and a thorough investigation is underway,” the detective said.
Officers have increased their presence in the area following the shooting.
Community Support
Local residents have been encouraged to approach officers for support.
Please do approach any of our officers who are in the local area, they will be happy to provide support to you,” DCS Haines concluded.
The crime scene remained in place as forensic teams conducted their investigation.
Rising Youth Violence
The incident occurs against a backdrop of escalating youth violence in London. The capital recorded 15,016 knife or sharp instrument offences in 2023/24.
This represents a 17% increase from 12,786 incidents in the previous year.
London saw 116 homicides in the 2023/24 reporting year, with knife crime remaining a persistent problem.
Teenage Victims
Young people aged under 25 accounted for 78 knife-related murders in the 12 months to March 2024. Of these, 17 were aged under 16.
Teenage victims were far more likely to be killed by a knife or sharp instrument than victims of all ages.
The shooting adds to concerns about youth violence in the borough of Enfield.
Investigation Continues
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 8393/26JUN.
Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Police confirmed several lines of enquiry remain active in the investigation.
