A headteacher has said that he is “devastated” after the death of a student in a stabbing near the school gates.

Police were called to reports of a stabbing in Markhouse Road, Walthamstow, at 4.09pm on Friday (May 5).

Kelmscott School Headteacher, Sam Jones, has since confirmed that a 16-year-old boy who subsequently died at the scene was a student at the school.

In a school statement, he said: “A Kelmscott student was tragically killed in a senseless knife attack. This is the darkest of days for the student’s family and the Kelmscott community more broadly.”

Police have said that the “brutal” stabbing “took place near a school” and was witnessed by “many” young people.

They added that the victim’s family are being supported by specially trained officers.

A post-mortem examination found that the teenager had died from a stab wound to the chest.

At this stage in the police investigation no arrests have been made.

Police have now urged members of the public to share any footage they may have of the incident with them.

In a separate statement released through Waltham Forest Council, Mr Jones said: “I cannot overstate how devastated I am by today’s senseless violence and I am sure the Kelmscott community shares my grief and sadness.

“Kelmscott is a large and tightknit family and this loss will be felt for a long time to come.

“I urge our community to remain respectful of the victim’s family and the police investigation. We will be offering counselling and support to pupils affected by this tragedy.”

Cllr Grace Williams, Leader of Waltham Forest Council, said: “A 16 year-old boy has died senselessly today in our borough. Nobody should have to deal with the loss of somebody so young and my heart goes out to the family and friends of the deceased.

“Their loss is our loss. The people of Waltham Forest and beyond will be shocked by this senseless act.

“A section of Markhouse Road remains closed as part of a crime scene and Council officers will be active in the area in the coming days to offer support and reassurance to the local community.”

Anyone with information or footage who has not yet spoken with police should submit images or footage via mipp.police.uk or call the Major Incident Room directly on 020 8345 3715. You can also Tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 4965/5MAY.

To remain anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers-uk.org.