Ruth Dombey says “there is a real sense of community there and I know that this incident has impacted the entire estate.”

A 17-year-old man has been charged with the murder of 42 year old Luke Blackmore.

Police are continuing to appeal for information that could help with their investigation.

Ruth Dombey’s statement in full.

I was shocked on Monday evening to receive a message from the Police to let me know that a resident had been fatally stabbed in our borough on the Roundshaw Estate.

There is a real sense of community on Roundshaw and I know that this incident has impacted the entire estate, along with the wider community.

Following the terrible tragedy, I invited the borough Police Superintendent to come with me to visit Roundshaw. I wanted to send a message of reassurance to residents that the Council is here for them during this difficult time and that we are and will be here to support them.

Throughout the week I have remained in close contact with the Police as they have been carrying out their investigations. I would like to thank them for responding quickly to the community’s concerns and they have now arrested and charged a 17-year-old man with murder.

The victim’s family are receiving specialist support and I send them my deepest condolences.

I know that many people must be feeling anxious. Police teams have increased their patrols and are happy to speak to anyone who has concerns. The investigations are still underway and the Police will share more information when they can.

They have asked me to say that anyone with information should contact them on 101 or report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Our borough is a good place to live. We remain one of the safest boroughs in London and thankfully incidents such as this are very rare. Our hearts go out to everyone who has been affected by this terrible news which has shaken us all.

Over the coming days, weeks and months the Council will continue to work closely with the community and the Police to help everyone come to terms with what has happened.