Community Pays Tribute to Kelyan Bokassa After Woolwich Bus Stabbing
Friends and family gather to honor Kelyan Bokassa, a victim of violence in Woolwich, as calls for support grow.
Kelyan Bokassa, Woolwich, London, Stabbing, Vigil, Youth Violence
Woolwich: A tragic incident unfolded when Kelyan Bokassa, a young aspiring rapper, was fatally stabbed on a bus. It happened on a route 472 bus near Woolwich Ferry just before 2:30 PM on Tuesday.
The following evening, about 40 people, including Kelyan’s friends, gathered for a vigil at St Mary Magdalene Church. This church overlooks the bus stop where Kelyan lost his life.
Mourners brought flowers and shared tears during moments of silence, mixed with readings and music that celebrated Kelyan’s life.
One of Kelyan’s friends spoke at the vigil, saying he was always there for others. He described Kelyan as a fun-loving guy with a pure heart.
He even joked about Kelyan’s love for food, which brought a smile amidst the sadness.
Reverend Jesse van der Valk and Bishop Alastair Cutting led prayers and readings, focusing on the need to protect young people and reduce violence.
Faron Paul, an anti-knife campaigner, also attended. He urged local government to provide long-term support for those affected by violence.
He emphasized the need for help, especially for young people caught in a cycle of violence and revenge.
Another attendee shared her shock, saying she was traumatized by what happened, even though she didn’t know Kelyan personally.
Kelyan’s mother, Mary Bokassa, revealed that her son had been groomed by gangs after running away from care and living on the streets.
She expressed her heartbreak, saying, “My son and others were taken advantage of by gangs.”
Mary described how Kelyan returned home after being missing for a year, sick and underweight, and how he seemed changed.
The tragic death of the 14-year-old has sparked discussions online, especially since another teenager, Daejaun Campbell, was also stabbed in Woolwich just months earlier.
The police have stated that there are no known links between the two cases, and the investigation is still in its early stages.
There was also a separate stabbing incident in Woolwich on Monday, but it’s not believed to be connected to Kelyan’s murder.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to help with the investigation.
Last year, 10 teenagers lost their lives in London, mostly due to stabbings, a significant drop from 21 in 2023.
The youngest victim this year was just 14 years old. If you have any information, you can call the police or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.