Teen stabbed at tram stop (From Croydon Guardian)

Appeal for witnesses after teen stabbed at Arena tram stop

1:31pm Wednesday 6th February 2013 in News By Hannah Williamson

A teenager was stabbed in the chest trying to break up a fight at a tram stop yesterday.

The incident happened shortly before 7.45pm on the Elmers End-bound platform at Arena tram stop, close to South Norwood Country Park.

The 17-year-old victim who had been walking through the area with his friends, stepped in to calm an altercation taking place at the tram stop when he was stabbed in the chest.

The boy, from Croydon, was taken to hospital where he remains in a stable condition. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

British Transport Police detectives are reviewing CCTV footage from the tram stop and are also making local enquiries.

Officers will be increasing patrols in the area over the next few days in a bid to speak to any witnesses who may have seen what took place.

Detective Chief Inspector Simon Taylor said: "As part of our enquiries, we are looking to establish a full picture of the circumstances, including what took place before, during and after this incident.

"Frightening offences like this are very rare on the tram network but, when they do occur, are treated with the utmost seriousness.

"Were you passing through the area at the time? Did you see anything? I’m urging anyone with information to come forward and speak to us."

Anyone who witnessed the incident should contact British Transport Police quoting log B8/LS of 6/2/2013 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.