The Metropolitan Police says private security guards were conducting weapons sweeps at entrances to a park where a 16-year-old boy was stabbed to death on New Year's Eve.

Harry Pitman, 16, was waiting with friends to watch the central London New Year fireworks from Primrose Hill when a fight began.

Emergency services were called at around 11.40pm and Harry was found with stab injuries.

Police carried out first aid but he was pronounced dead a short time later. 

Royal Parks, which manages the park, the Metropolitan Police and Camden Council had been working together to police the open space on December 31.

Superintendent Jack Rowlands, who looks after neighbourhood policing in Camden, said the fatal stabbing was a "tragic start" to 2024.

He said: "Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences remain first and foremost with Harry Pitman's loved ones."

He said local teams worked alongside partners in Camden to agree a policing plan for the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Primrose Hill.

“The plan was put in place with our very supportive safer neighbourhood team and there was no intelligence to suggest a threat that that any violence would take place," he said.

“We are aware that there was private security at the entrance of the park conducting weapons sweeps, and both local Camden and Royal Parks police officers were within the footprint of the park on New Year’s Eve."

Supt Rowlands said the long-term security of the park is a collaboration between Camden Council, the Royal Parks and the Met and they would continue to listen to residents’ concerns.

He added: "The safety of everyone who visits the park is paramount.

“For a tragedy of this kind to take place on a day which should have been full of optimism is unthinkable – our local officers will continue to be on enhanced patrols in the coming days and we are available for local people to speak with.”

A Royal Parks spokesperson said: "Our thoughts are with Harry’s family and friends.

“Primrose Hill has been open to the public for many years, and we work closely with the police to ensure that it is safely enjoyed by visitors.

“On New Year’s Eve, the park was open until 1am for visitors to enjoy the celebrations, supported by a police presence, and The Royal Parks supplied stewards and tower lights.”

Cllr Pat Callaghan, acting leader of Camden Council and cabinet member for safer communities, said on New Year's Day: “We are deeply saddened that a 16-year-old has died after being stabbed in Primrose Hill. Our thoughts and sympathies are with this young person’s family and friends at this terrible time.

“We are working closely with the police to support them with this investigation. We are also stepping up visible patrols with the police in the Primrose Hill area to provide reassurance to residents over the next few days.

“We will continue to work with our partners to do all we can to keep young people safe in Camden.”

A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder and later released on bail.

Anyone with information about the incident should contact detectives by calling  the investigation team on 0208 785 8099.

Anyone who saw what happened or has information, mobile phone footage or other material that can help, please call the police on 101 or post @MetCC ref CAD 6649/31 Dec. 

Alternatively to remain anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.