Investigators were today going door-to-door in Clapton to find out how a teenage boy on a moped lost his life after a police chase this week.

Hackney Gazette: 'RIP my lil bro': Heartbreaking messages at the scene of the crash (Picture: Ken Mears)'RIP my lil bro': Heartbreaking messages at the scene of the crash (Picture: Ken Mears) (Image: Archant)

Lewis Johnson, understood to be 18, died after his moped collided with a van on Tuesday just before midday on the A107, next to Clapton Common.

Last night the Independent Police Complaints Commission launched its independent investigation into the tragedy.

Investigators in high-vis jackets today spoke to the public along the A107 and handed out leaflets urging people to get in touch with information.

Scotland Yard said officers had been chasing a moped after a smash-and-grab robbery near Kingsland Road in the lead-up to the collision.

Hackney Gazette: 'RIP my lil bro': Heartbreaking messages at the scene of the crash (Picture: Ken Mears)'RIP my lil bro': Heartbreaking messages at the scene of the crash (Picture: Ken Mears) (Image: Archant)

Mr Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene while a boy riding with him remained in hospital in a serious but stable condition.

Jennifer Izekor, commissioner of the case, told reporters her team “will do everything they can”.

“It’s very early days but we are launching an appeal today to try speak to anyone who might have been in the vicinity yesterday.

“We are very aware this is a tragic time for the family and are keen to make sure they are informed of what we are doing.

“It will be a robust and through investigation to explain what happened leading up to the tragic loss.”

Friends of the teenager also visited the site of the crash to pay their respects and leave flowers.

One message at the scene read, “Gone way too soon, Love you bro.”

A woman who lives nearby in Upper Clapton Road, said: “I was on my way home and I didn’t know what was happening as there was so much traffic.

“I couldn’t get home and only found out from a neighbour. It’s so, so sad.

“It’s horrible to think a family has lost a son with so much to give in life.”

The commissioner also confirmed investigators would scour nearby CCTV in the hope of turning up leads.

She said: “Behind the scenes we are keen to get all the evidence we can. A full team of investigators has been taking statements and will be looking at council-owned CCTV as well as privately-owned CCTV in our enquiries.”