Charity raises concerns over ‘devastating’ 21% rise in knife crime

Tributes have been pouring in from the local community after the tragic deaths of Harry Pitman and Jonah Ho-Shue from Haringey

A charity has warned of the “devastating” impact of a 21% rise in knife crime in the capital since last year following the stabbings of Harry Pitman and Jonah Ho-Shue last month.

The Ben Kinsella Trust said that more needs to be done to “educate young people” and tackle the root causes of knife crime after the death of 16-year-old Harry and 24-year-old Jonah.

Harry, from Tottenham, was stabbed on New Year’s Eve while watching fireworks with friends at Primrose Hill.

Officers provided first aid before paramedics arrived, but Harry sadly died at the scene shortly before midnight.

A 16-year-old, who cannot be named because of his age, has been charged with his murder and appeared at Highbury Magistrates Court on Saturday, 6th January. A provisional trial has been set for September 2024.

Jonah was stabbed on Thursday, 4th January at around 10.43pm in Albert Road, Stroud Green.

He was declared dead at the scene by paramedics and his family are being supported by specialist officers.

Detectives are still appealing for information related to the incident.

Patrick Green, CEO of the Ben Kinsella Trust, commented: “These tragic [deaths] are a stark reminder of the devastating human cost of London’s rising knife crime problem. In the last year knife crime rose by 21% across the capital. But behind every statistic is a personal tragedy, a family shattered, a future stolen. We cannot become numb to this violence. We must act with urgency and determination to stop knife crime.”

Tributes have been pouring in for Harry and Jonah, with a vigil held by the Tottenham community in Downhills Park last month and a vigil for Jonah held by the Stroud Green community. Attendees of a match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium also held a minute’s applause for Harry (a Spurs fan) during a game last month.

Alex Rosen, head of St Thomas More Catholic School in Wood Green where Harry was a student, said: “Our entire school community mourns the loss of a bright and promising young soul. Harry touched the lives of many with his infectious laughter and enthusiasm for life. He will be remembered for his many qualities, particularly his resilience and the positive impact he had on those around him.

“During this difficult time, we extend our deepest sympathies to Harry’s family, friends, staff at our school and school friends. We will come together as a Catholic community to offer support and comfort to one another as we navigate this profound loss. We encourage everyone to reach out to each other and share memories of Harry, celebrating the joy and warmth he brought into our lives.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Harry’s family during this heartbreaking time. May he rest in peace.”

Lisa Wise, headteacher at Harry’s primary school Wilbury Primary School, added: “We were all devastated to hear of the tragic loss of one of our former pupils. Harry was a much loved boy; always smiling, always happy and surrounded by a loving family and friends. Our hearts go out to his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”

Patrick told HCP: “The Ben Kinsella Trust is heartbroken by the tragic loss of Harry Pitman and Jonah Ho-Shue, two young lives lost to acts of senseless violence in North London. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of Harry and Jonah during this unimaginably difficult time.

The Ben Kinsella Trust calls for a multifaceted response that addresses the root causes of knife crime. This includes investing in education and awareness campaigns. Too many young people still believe that carrying a knife offers protection. This is a dangerous myth. We need to educate young people about the dangers of knife carrying and the devastating consequences it can have. [We need to] invest in early intervention and youth support programmes, We need to reach young people at risk before they are drawn into cycles of violence. Providing mentorship, positive role models, and opportunities can help them build a brighter future.

“[We also need to] tackle the root causes of violence: poverty, inequality, and social exclusion create breeding grounds for crime. We must address these issues head-on to create a fairer and more just society where everyone has the chance to thrive.

“Strengthening police presence and community engagement, building trust and collaboration between the police and the communities they serve is essential. We need visible police patrols, but also officers who understand and engage with the challenges facing young people.”

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