Police recover ‘significant evidence’ after searches in West London as investigation into stabbing death of Blue Stevens enters new phase
Three men have been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 24-year-old man outside a luxury Knightsbridge hotel last week, with police now investigating the possibility of a targeted attack.
Two suspects were detained at an address in Hounslow on Saturday, with one man arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder and another on suspicion of murder. The murder suspect has been bailed pending further enquiries whilst the conspiracy suspect remains in custody.
A third man was arrested on Monday on suspicion of assisting an offender and remains in police custody. Following the initial arrests, Metropolitan Police officers executed search warrants at two properties in Chiswick where they recovered what they described as “significant evidence.
Victim Named as Blue Stevens
The arrests relate to the death of Blue Stevens, 24, from Yateley, Hampshire, who was stabbed to death on Seville Street near the five-star Park Tower Knightsbridge Hotel on Wednesday, 9 July. Emergency services were called at approximately 9:20pm but despite efforts from paramedics and London’s Air Ambulance, Stevens was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah, who leads policing in Central West London, described the arrests as marking “a significant milestone in this complex and unfolding murder investigation.” She added that whilst police retain an open mind about motive, “one line of enquiry is now that this may have been a targeted attack.
“We continue to progress at pace,” Detective Chief Superintendent Jessah said. Increased police patrols remain active in and around the Knightsbridge area. Please do speak with an officer if you have any questions or concerns.”
Reports of Rolex Robbery
Initial witness reports suggested the attack may have been an attempted robbery, with several sources claiming Stevens was targeted for his Rolex watch. The area has experienced a spate of watch thefts in recent years, with criminals dubbed “Rolex Rippers” operating on bikes and scooters in upmarket areas.
Stevens was reportedly walking with his partner after a meal when the attack occurred. Witnesses described seeing a masked assailant who fled the scene, though no description has been officially released by police. The incident happened directly opposite Harvey Nichols department store, in one of London’s most exclusive shopping districts.
Tributes left at the scene included flowers, cards and a blue candle. One note read: “We are all absolutely devastated without you. You took a piece of my heart with you.” Another message from his partner stated: “To my Blue. I should have held on tighter.”
Hotel Not Involved
The Park Tower Knightsbridge, a Luxury Collection property managed by Marriott, confirmed that neither its guests nor staff were involved in the incident. The 271-room hotel, which opened in 1973 and features distinctive circular architecture, is known for its luxury amenities and proximity to Hyde Park and Harrods.
A spokesperson for the hotel stated the incident occurred on the public street outside the property. The hotel’s Hyde Bar and Knightsbridge Lounge continued normal operations following the tragedy.
Community Impact
The stabbing has prompted concerns about safety in the affluent area, typically associated with luxury shopping and multimillion-pound residences. The incident occurred on the same day London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced increased police presence in town centres to tackle theft and anti-social behaviour.
Deputy Mayor for policing and crime, Kaya Comer-Schwartz, described the attack as “appalling” and confirmed there would be “increased high-visibility police patrols” in the area. Knife crime has no place in our streets or communities,” she said.
Local businesses reported heightened anxiety amongst tourists and shoppers. One American visitor staying at the hotel told reporters she had been wearing her Rolex when the incident occurred nearby, adding: “Now we have our guard up. The Rolex won’t be back on this trip.”
Investigation Continues
Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command are leading the investigation, designated Operation Conatus. Police have appealed for witnesses, dashcam footage or social media posts that could assist their enquiries.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room on 0208 721 4961 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. The crime scene on Seville Street has been released, though increased patrols continue in the area.
Stevens’ family have requested privacy as they come to terms with their loss. Specialist officers continue to provide support to his next of kin during the investigation.
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Image Credit:
Park Tower Casino, 2014 – Image by Ewan Munro, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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