Police investigating Harry Pitman murder release pictures of men they want to speak to
Police investigating the murder of 16-year-old Harry Pitman, who was fatally stabbed at a New Year’s Eve firework event in north London, have released images of two males they wish to speak to.
The teen died after becoming involved in what police described as an “altercation” with another male on Primrose Hill, where crowds had gathered to celebrate the new year.
The officer leading the investigation said that there was “no racial or gang element” to the stabbing and it appeared to be a “spontaneous fight”.
Three teenagers arrested over the killing – a 15-year-old and a 16-year-old on suspicion of murder, along with an 18-year-old on suspicion of affray – have been bailed pending further investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Grogan said: “We are working at pace to identify and speak to everyone in the immediate vicinity of the murder, and to that end, I have issued two images and am asking anyone who can name the people pictured to get in touch.
“Similarly, if you see yourself pictured, please contact us without delay. It may be that you have information that could help us, or that we can eliminate you from our enquiries.
“Harry’s family is devastated. He was a vibrant young man who should have had his life ahead of him. We continue to support them as they struggle to come to terms with their loss.”
Harry had been with a group of friends near the viewing platform on Primrose Hill when the fight broke out shortly before 11.40pm.
DCI Grogan added: “Our enquiries so far have established that there was no racial or gang element to this incident, it appears to have been a spontaneous fight between two people who didn’t know each other, that quickly escalated to extreme violence.
“Despite having made three arrests, I am still very keen to hear from anyone who has footage or information that could assist our investigation, particularly if you can name any of the people in the images.
“I would also like to thank everyone who has come forward so far, the response from the public has been exceptional. Please continue to come forward if you can help.”
On Wednesday, Harry’s sister Tayla, 19, said in a TikTok video that her brother was a “good boy” who had a “heart of gold” and would not have been involved in violence.
She said: “Harry was not in any way shape or form involved with any gangs or anyone who could cause trouble.
“He’s not ever been in trouble with the police and people are making it out like Harry died because he did something wrong when my brother’s the victim here.
“And I’m sick of this narrative that’s being portrayed that Harry deserved to die because he was involved, but Harry didn’t deserve to die because he wasn’t involved.”
Around 100 people – including Harry’s mother, brother and sister – gathered at Downhills Park in Haringey, north London, on Tuesday evening to pay their respects to the teenager, with many carrying flowers and balloons.
Tottenham Hotspur fans are also planning to pay tribute to him on Friday evening when their team play Burnley in the FA Cup.
