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INVESTIGATION: A murder investigation has been launched after a 16-year-old boy died from gunshot wounds

A 16-YEAR-OLD boy who was shot in Walthamstow, east London, on Monday has died.

The boy died in hospital at around 5.30pm yesterday. His next of kin were present in the hospital at the time of his death.

The Metropolitan police have now launched a murder investigation.

A/DCI Glenn Butler from the Trident and area crime command said: "I fully appreciate the alarm, shock and revulsion caused by this murder and other fatal shootings we have seen across London over the last few months.

"We are doing everything we can to identify the culprits and bring them to justice. We can't do this alone. We need those within the community who have information about those involved to search their own conscience and call us with information.

"Detail forensic testing including ballistic analysis and the recovery of local CCTV footage is in hand and my officers will be knocking on doors."

Police presence in the area has been increased and specialist officers from the Met’s ‘Operation Sceptre’ unit are conducting a range of intelligence led operations and patrols.

Following the news of the teenage boy’s death, Labour and Co-operative MP for Walthamstow Stella Creasy said on Twitter: “Walthamstow am very sad to confirm the 16 year old victim of a shooting last night in Markhouse area has now died from his injuries. Waiting for a formal police update with latest on investigation which will share when I have it.”

Police officers were called to Markhouse Road in Walthamstow on Monday at approximately 10pm after reports of gunshots.

A 15-year-old boy who suffered stab wounds in the same incident was treated for his injuries at hospital and has now been released.

No arrests have been made.

Anyone with information relating to the incident is requested to call police on 101 quoting CAD 6727/02 April or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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