Man with serious knife injuries is suspect in Crystal Palace murder as two men die in separate stabbings in London in less than 24 hours - 17-year old also dead in Battersea

TWO males were killed in separate stabbings in under 24 hours and just five miles apart in the capital as the menace of knife crime continues.

A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a man in Crystal Palace overnight.

Police were called to Westow Hill at 3:39am today, Sunday, 21 June 2026, by the London Ambulance Service following reports of a stabbing.

Officers arrived to find a man in his 30’s with serious injuries. He was treated on scene before being conveyed to hospital where his injuries have been deemed as neither life-threatening nor life-changing.

Shortly after the initial report, officers located another man, believed to be in his 30’s in the Westow Hill area with stab wounds. Despite the best attempts of police and the London Ambulance Service he was later pronounced dead at the scene.

The 30-year-old man in hospital has since been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee, who is leading the investigation said: “Our officers responded quickly alongside the London Ambulance Service who did everything possible to help the victim.

“This is a fast-moving investigation and residents in Crystal Palace will continue to notice an extensive police presence today as our enquiries continue.

“There are a number of scenes in place, and I encourage anyone who may information or concerns to contact us.”

Anyone with information or footage is asked to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 1302/21JUN26. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Less than 24 hours earlier, at around 04:20hrs on Saturday, 20 June, an earlier murder investigation was launched following the death of a 17-year-old boy in Battersea.

Police were called at to reports of a stabbing following a potential altercation on Glycena Road, Battersea.

Officers attended with the London Ambulance Service and London's Air Ambulance and located the17-year-old with serious injuries.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. His next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

A murder investigation has been launched with officers remaining in the area to continue enquiries. A large crime scene remains in place with surrounding roads closed.

No arrests have been made at this stage.

Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie, who is the Senior Investigating Officer leading this inquiry for the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said:

“Our enquiries are progressing intensively, and our thoughts remain firmly with the victim’s family at this extremely difficult time.

“I understand this incident will cause significant concern within the community. There is a continued and highly visible police presence in the area, and I would encourage anyone with concerns to approach officers at the scene.

“This is a critical stage of the investigation and I am appealing directly to the public: if you were in the Lavender Hill area between 04:00hrs and 05:00hrs, specifically Glycena Road, Acanthus Road or Pountney Road, and witnessed a group of males running, please come forward.

“Any information, no matter how minor it may seem, could prove crucial. CCTV, doorbell or mobile phone footage may provide vital evidence.

“I would also urge members of the public not to assume that information has already been shared, any detail could be of significant importance to the investigation.”

Anyone with information or footage is asked to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 1567/20JUN26. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.