‘His heart was his family’: Mum’s devastating tribute after 18-year-old stabbed to death in Enfield

The devastated mother of an 18-year-old stabbed to death in Enfield has left a heartbreaking tribute to her son, saying: “His heart was his family.”

Donovan Allen, who was known as Dimz, was knifed to death at a block of flats in Ponders End on Monday - the first fatal teen stabbing in London this year.

A 14-year-old was arrested at the scene and has been taken into police custody where he currently remains for questioning.

Donovan lived with his mother Charmaine and sister Denna - who he was very close to.

Charmaine said Donovan was a kind, thoughtful and loving son.

She said: “His heart was his family and his music was his passion.

“His strength was his loyalty.”

She has released family photos showing Donovan posing for photos with herself and Denna.

In another picture, Donovan can be seen carrying his little sister on his shoulders and smiling while at school.

Detectives are still appealing for witnesses into the attack in Ayley Croft, Ponders End, on Monday night.

Officers found Donovan with stab wounds at the Bonnington House tower block around 6.10pm.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services, he died at the scene.

The Met’s Murder Squad are investigating and have appealed for any witnesses who saw a person running from the scene.

Det Ch Insp Linda Bradley, leading the investigation, said: “A young man has lost his life in this tragic incident and his family and friends have been left devastated.

“We are at the early stages of a murder investigation and are exploring a number of lines of enquiry - I am appealing directly to anyone that may have witnessed the incident or knows anything about who may have be involved.

“We urgently need to speak to anyone with information, particularly anyone who may have heard or seen anything suspicious in the vicinity of Bonnington House, Ayley Croft in Enfield on Monday, February 7 at around 6pm.

“Did you see anyone running away from the area at this time?

“Even if you think the information you have may not be of great importance, please share it with police as it may help us piece together the events that led to this tragic death.”

Ch Supt Simon Crick, in charge of policing for Enfield and Haringey, said: “The family of this young man have been devastated by his death and my thoughts are with them.

“Detectives are working at pace to investigate this attack and I would also add my appeal to the public to get in touch if they have any information that could help the investigation.

“Police officers remain in the area, where they are speaking to members of the public and doing door-to-door enquiries.

“Local residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area and I would encourage anyone who has concerns to please speak to officers

“We remain committed to working with the local community to address any concerns they may have.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via 101, quoting reference CAD 5753/07FEB. To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.