Croydon stabbing: Family’s tributes to Elianne Andam, 15, killed on bus to school

Flowers have been left in tribute to a “much-loved” teenage girl stabbed to death near a bus stop in Croydon.

Named locally as Elianne Andam, the 15-year-old was fatally stabbed on her way to school on Wednesday morning (September 27), with officers called to Wellesley Road at 8.30am following reports of the incident.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested just over an hour later and remains in custody.

A spokesperson for Elianne’s family said: “Our hearts are broken by the senseless death of our daughter.

“Elianne was the light of our lives. She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her.

“She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future.

“All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family.

“We ask the media to please respect our privacy as we try to grieve the short life of our beautiful child.”

Elianne was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School, a private girls’ school in Croydon.

The school said in a statement: “We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil.

“It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so.

“Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girl’s family at this unimaginably distressing time.”

Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Woodsford, who is leading the investigation, said: “My thoughts and the thoughts of my team are with the Elianne’s family. This is a deeply upsetting time for them and we will do everything we can to support them.

“Our investigation continues and we are making good progress. We have recovered CCTV from the area and have spoken to a number of witnesses. Forensic scientists have also examined the scene.

“From these enquiries we are now confident Elianne was attacked outside in Wellesley Road near to the bus stop rather than onboard the bus.

“We know many people were in the area at the time and would have witnessed the attack. This would have been distressing and traumatic and I would encourage anyone who needs support to contact us and we will help to arrange this.

“I know that Elianne’s death has left many people feeling upset and I would like to thank the people of Croydon for the support they have shown us as we have carried out our enquiries in the town centre. I know this work has been disruptive, however it has been vital and your patience is appreciated.”

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, added he is “absolutely heartbroken” by Elianne’s death.

“My thoughts and prayers are with this young girl’s family and friends, and the whole community, at this unimaginably awful time.”

Police are asking anyone who witnessed the attack or has any information to contact the force via 101 quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep.

To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The online portal for information, photos and videos can be found on a police website.