Family of hero schoolgirl stabbed to death in Croydon break down in tears during emotional vigil
Family of Elianne Andam (including her aunt next to the bishop) were distraught at the vigil
PA
The family of schoolgirl Elianne Andam broke down in tears during an emotional vigil for the 15-year-old last night.
Tributes were paid to her “thoughtful, kind daughter” after she was knifed to death on her way to school in South London.
The incident took place outside the Whitgift Centre in Croydon.
Friends and family gathered at the scene to hold an emotional vigil.
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Elianne was said to have established a close relationship with her six-year-old brother Micaiah.
Relatives arrived in several cars at 6pm before being escorted through the police cordon by officers.
Mother Dorcas Andam, an NHS children’s nurse, was consoled by husband Michael as they tried to “comprehend this painful tragedy”.
Croydon Bishop Rosemarie Mallett read a statement on behalf of the family which said: “We as a family are struggling to comprehend this painful tragedy that has happened to our beautiful daughter and beloved sister Elianne.
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Family and friends of Elianne Andam at the scene in Croydon
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“Our hearts are broken. And we are overwhelmed by sorrow and grief. Our faith in the Lord is strengthening us.
“We would like to express our gratitude to those who have taken the time to send us thoughtful and compassionate messages and prayers.
“We kindly ask for your consideration to also respect our need for privacy as we attempt to come to grips with our deeply devastating loss.
“Elianne was a beautiful person inside and out who loved Jesus. She was intelligent, thoughtful, kind and had a bright future ahead of her.
People attending a vigil in Croydon, South London
PA
“It is our request that you keep our cherished daughter Elianne and our family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Woodsford, who is leading the investigation, added: “Our investigation continues and we are making good progress.
“We have recovered CCTV from the area and have spoken to a number of witnesses. Forensic scientists have also examined the scene.
“From these inquiries we are now confident Elianne was attacked outside in Wellesley Road near to the bus stop rather than onboard the bus.
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“We know many people were in the area at the time and would have witnessed the attack.
“This would have been distressing and traumatic and I would encourage anyone who needs support to contact us and we will help to arrange this.
“I know that Elianne’s death has left many people feeling upset and I would like to thank the people of Croydon for the support they have shown us as we have carried out our inquiries in the town centre.
“I know this work has been disruptive, however it has been vital and your patience is appreciated.”
A handout image of Elianne Andam from the Metropolitan PoliceMETROPOLITAN POLICEElianne, an aspiring lawyer, was stabbed in the neck with a foot-long knife during an incident en route to Old Palace of John Whitgift School.
A 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington yesterday, Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain has confirmed.
Scotland Yard has since charged the suspect with murder and possession of a knife.
A postmortem examination took place on Thursday and the Metropolitan Police is making further inquiries to establish the exact relationship between the victim and suspect.
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