A 16-year-old has been charged with murder after a street fight that erupted from a house party in Hackney, leaving a 15-year-old boy dead.
The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is also charged with possession of a bladed article and was due to appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Saturday. The charges follow the death of Brayan David Saldarriaga, from Haringey, who was found with stab wounds in Poplar Close on Monday evening and pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts from the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance.
The fatal incident
Police were called shortly after 7.15pm on Monday, May 25, to reports of a large gathering, disorder and sightings of individuals carrying machetes in Towpath Walk, Hackney. Officers believe the trouble began at a house party on the same road. While en route, further reports came in of a stabbing and possible firearm discharges.
The victim, Brayan David Saldarriaga, was discovered in nearby Poplar Close. He is understood to have had Colombian roots and spoke little English when he moved to London. A close friend, Kaylen, aged 15, described him as “a friend you could trust,” “like my brother,” and “outgoing, talking to people.” Kaylen added that Brayan “always made sure I was safe.” Another friend remembered him as “funny,” making jokes and “nice to have around.” He wanted to sit his GCSEs and had many friends who cared about him, according to those who knew him.
The Metropolitan Police said the disorder involved a significant number of people, and officers are aware that many in the crowd filmed the gathering and the violence on their mobile phones. Detective Chief Inspector Lucie Card, who is leading the investigation, stressed the importance of any footage captured, urging those who recorded events to come forward. She acknowledged the impact on the local community and said increased police patrols have been put in place in the area. Residents are encouraged to speak with officers on patrol.
Police appeal for information
Brayan’s family have been informed of his death and are being supported by specialist officers. They have asked for privacy as they come to terms with their loss.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 101, quoting CAD 6692/25MAY. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
