Harry Pitman: Boy, 16, charged with murder after Primrose Hill stabbing

A 16-year-old boy has been remanded into custody charged with the murder of Harry Pitman in north London on New Year’s Eve.

Harry Pitman, who was also 16, had joined friends to watch fireworks before he was stabbed to death in Primrose Hill park, Camden, shortly before midnight.

The defendant, who is from Westminster and cannot be named because of his age, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address, and to tell his visibly emotional parents that he loved them as he was escorted into custody.

He is also charged with possessing an offensive weapon.

Addressing the defendant’s parents who leaned towards their son behind a glass screen, District Judge Denis Brennan closed the hearing at Highbury Magistrates’ Court by saying: “I also appreciate the control you showed whilst in the court, please, with dignity, can you leave the courtroom.”

The defendant will next appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday.

The Metropolitan Police earlier said Harry was with a group of friends near the viewing platform on Primrose Hill when he was stabbed at around 11.40pm.

“Officers provided first aid before paramedics arrived but, despite the efforts of emergency services, Harry sadly died at the scene shortly before midnight,” the force said.

A 17-year-old male who was arrested on Thursday has been released on bail, and three other boys originally arrested in connection with the incident will have no further action taken against them.

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”.

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