A 15-year-old boy who was stabbed to death in Croydon the day before New Year’s Eve has been named by police as Zaian Aimable-Lina.

The teenager died at the scene of the attack in Ashburton Park after being stabbed in the heart, the Metropolitan Police said.

Officers were made aware of the assault shortly after 7pm and gave Zaian first aid before the London Ambulance Service arrived.

Despite their efforts, the boy was pronounced dead at around 7.36pm.

A 15-year-old boy who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail to a date in late January.

Police have said Zaian was from the local area in south London.

His family are being supported by specialist officers.

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Detectives are continuing to appeal for any witnesses of the attack to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Leonard, from the Specialist Crime Command investigating the attack, said: “My thoughts continue to be with Zaian’s family and friends as they cope with this tragic loss.

“My team are continuing to work around the clock so that we can give Zaian’s family the answers they deserve.

“Zaian’s death has sent shockwaves through the local community and London as a whole. He was just 15- years-old and had his whole life ahead of him and we need the community to work with us to bring those responsible to justice.”

A second fatal stabbing, where a 16-year-old boy was killed in Yiewsley, west London, less than an hour later, made 2021 the deadliest year on record for teenage homicides in London.

Anyone with information about either attack is asked to call police on 101. To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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