02 January 2024 , 19:52
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The devastated grandad of a teen stabbed to death on New Years’ Eve says he may have been targeted because of his height.
Harry Pitman, 16, died on Primrose Hill in North London where tens of thousands were preparing to bring in the New Year. Philip Woolveridge, 59, said his 6ft 3in grandson was a “cheeky chappy” with “bright ginger hair he wore like a badge of honour”.
Earlier today dozens of people attended a vigil for Harry, who was described as a "bright and promising" boy. Witnesses said large crowds, including families with children, had gathered to watch the fireworks when the "senseless" violence broke out.
Around a hundred people - including Harry's mother, brother, and sister - gathered at Downhills Park to pay their respect to the teenager, with many carrying flowers and balloons.
Phillip Woolveridge, 59, fears his 6ft 3in tall grandson Harry Pitman may have been stabbed to death at the Primrose Hill fireworks for being tall (ITV)Mr Woolveridge told The Sun: “I can’t express how devastated we are as a family. Moving forward is going to be a slow process. I just cannot believe he’s no longer here. I’m angry. I’m very angry.
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“We have got to rally around my daughter [Harry’s mum]. We are worried about her. Harry was a cheeky chappy, he would turn anything into a joke. He wouldn’t intentionally go out of his way to harm anyone, he would protect his mates.
“He is one of the biggest members of the family - being tall can make you a target. He was really funny. Growing up, we looked after the children for a while and he was like Velcro to me. He was a lovely child. He was a fun-loving child, always laughing and joking.”
Police said Harry was involved in an altercation with “devastating consequences”. A 16-year-old boy arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Grogan, who is leading the investigation, said: “My thoughts and sympathies are with Harry’s family and friends at this difficult time. He was a young man with the rest of his life ahead of him.
“We know Harry was with a group of friends near the viewing platform on Primrose Hill where they had gathered to celebrate the New Year. It is here where we believe Harry became involved in an altercation with devastating consequences.” A post-mortem examination will take place in the coming days.