There is a £20,000 reward for information to help bring the killers of a teenager to justice. James Akinwande, 18, ws stabbed to death in Brixton in the early hours of January 16 1994.
He had left Vox nightclub in Brighton Terrace, Brixton after having a fight. He was later left isolated from his friends by Boots on Brixton Road at around 4.45am. He was then chased by a large group of young men before they beat and stabbed him.
James, from Tottenham, managed to escape the attack after getting loose from his jacket and ran towards a police van that was parked in Brixton Road. He collapsed and was given first aid by the officers before the ambulance arrived.
Were you at The Vox nightclub and do you remember this jacket?
(Image: Met Police)
He was raced to King’s College Hospital where he died from stab wounds to the chest and arm. James was wearing a distinct red and dark blue FILA jacket.
Half of the jacket was red and the other half was dark blue. The FILA logo was across the back of the jacket and was stolen on the night of the killing Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to call 101 quoting Operation Poldark or CAD1203/16Jan25. You can also call the incident room on 0208 785 8267.
James’ family said: “In 1994, our family experienced an unimaginable loss when James was tragically murdered at just 18 years old.
“James was a light in our lives. He was generous, endlessly funny and filled with a positivity that brightened every room he entered.
“His laugh, his energy and his love for life are deeply missed every single day. The perpetrators of this senseless act tore a void in our family that can never be filled.
“His mother, devastated by the loss of her son, has never been the same and finds it too painful to even visit his grave. The impact of James’ absence is felt in every moment, and we continue to grieve the life he was so cruelly denied.”
Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin said: “It has been 31 years since James’ tragic murder and we are still actively searching for the group of young men involved in this horrific attack. We have not given up hope of securing justice for James’s family and providing them with the answers they so desperately need after such a long and painful wait.
“If you were involved in the incident, be aware that we are still looking for you. We are now offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information that leads to the successful charge and conviction of the person or people responsible.
“Think back to 1994 – did you attend this music event? Did you witness the attack on James? You may have been younger then and got involved in something you were not comfortable with, or now regret not speaking out about. If you saw or heard anything, then please come forward to talk with us. It is really important we find out what happened on that night, 31 years ago.
“We have a team of specialist officers who will support you throughout, please do the right thing.”
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