A 14-year-old Nigerian boy who was fatally shot in south-east London has been identified as Eghosa Ogbebor, in a case that has sparked outrage and grief within the community.
Police were called to reports of a shooting on Lord Warwick Street in Woolwich at about 15:40 BST on Thursday. Paramedics treated the teenager at the scene, but he was pronounced dead shortly after. Authorities confirmed that his family has been notified.
Three suspects, two boys aged 14 and 16, and an 18-year-old man, have been arrested on suspicion of murder as investigations continue.
Detectives have appealed for witnesses and urged anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to assist with the inquiry.
The shooting triggered panic at a nearby pub, The Greyhound, where customers ran indoors after hearing gunshots. A staff member, Sofia Pereira, said she heard a loud bang before seeing a teenager run through the pub’s patio towards Woolwich Church Street.
She added that several people rushed inside in fear, believing one of those involved may have been armed with a machete.
Residents described the incident as shocking, with one local saying it felt “unreal” to walk through the area the following day, despite growing concerns about safety in recent years.
On Friday, police cordoned off the scene as forensic teams carried out searches, while floral tributes were laid in memory of the victim.
Detective Chief Inspector Lucie Card said officers are working at pace and have increased patrols in the area to reassure residents.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the killing, describing it as “appalling” and extending his condolences to the boy’s family, friends, and the wider Woolwich community.
