Police have launched a murder investigation after a teenager died in Homerton on Tuesday night.

Police and the London Ambulance service were called to Ponsford Street just before midnight to reports of a stabbing and found the boy, aged in his mid-teens.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The boy’s next of kin are currently being informed. A post-mortem examination will also be scheduled.

DCI Hughes, said: “At this early stage in the investigation, I believe the victim was in a shop on nearby Homerton High Street. On leaving the shop, there appears to have been some sort of altercation with a group of three or four male youths.

“It would appear the victim was chased by the group to Ponsford Street, where he was stabbed. The suspects then ran off in an unknown direction.

“A number of witnesses have already come forward and are assisting with the investigation. This is a busy area and, even at this time of night, there would have been people about.

“Perhaps they saw or heard something which they thought insignificant at the time, but could be helpful to the investigation. I would urge them to contact the incident room.”

There have been no arrests.

Police ask that any witnesses, or anyone with information that can assist the investigation, call the incident room on 020 8345 3865 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.