The victim, who has not been named, was the 26th teenager to be murdered in the capital this year, equalling the joint highest figure in the last 13 years.

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after another teenager was knifed to death in the early hours of this morning.

Police say the victim, 18, was found with multiple stab wounds in Ilford, east London, just before 4am. He was pronounced dead at the scene half-an-hour later.

The victim, who has not been named, was the 26th teenager to be murdered in the capital this year, equalling the joint highest figure in the last 13 years.

Detectives say they are maintaining an “open mind” regarding any motive for the latest sickening knife murder.

Harrow Road, south Ilford, in east London, where the 18-year-old was stabbed to death. Credit: Google

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: “Police were called at 3.54am to reports of a fight taking place at Harrow Road, Ilford.

“Officers and paramedics attended.

“At the scene a male, believed 18, was found with stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 4.27am.

“A 15-year-old male, was arrested on suspicion of murder. He was taken to an east London police station where he remains at this time.

“The victim’s next of kin have been informed. A post mortem will be scheduled in due course. We await formal identification. A crime scene remains in place.”

He added: “At this early stage detectives retain an open mind concerning motive.”

Ilford stabbing: Boy, 15, held on suspicion of murder after 18-year-old stabbed to death