A murder investigation has been launched after a 15-year-old schoolboy was fatally stabbed in broad daylight on Tuesday afternoon in a bustling area of London. The teenager was pronounced dead at the scene, despite the best efforts of emergency services.

The incident occurred in the Lower Clapton area of Hackney, where residents witnessed police descending on Stellman Close shortly after 4pm. Here, they discovered the young boy suffering from stab wounds.

Despite their attempts to save him, he tragically lost his life at the scene. Authorities are currently in the process of informing the boy's next of kin. Police have announced that the roads surrounding Stellman Close will remain closed for a significant period as they investigate this horrific event.

They are appealing to the public for any information, believing there were likely numerous witnesses to the alleged stabbing, reports the Mirror.

Late on Tuesday evening, the Metropolitan Police issued a statement confirming their attendance at the E5 scene at 4.05pm and announcing that a manhunt is now underway for the suspected assailant.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, who oversees policing in Hackney, expressed his condolences, stating: "The death of a child is devastating and my first thoughts are with his family and friends.

"Our communities will also be deeply concerned by this event. Urgent enquiries are underway and my officers are working hard to identify the suspects. Local residents can expect to see a notable police presence in the area as the investigation continues and there will be road closures in the Stellman Close area for some time."

"I would appeal to anyone with information about the incident to call us on 101 quoting CAD 5387/23Jul.

"Our communities have shown their strength in coming forward to support the police in tackling knife crime and I ask for their support again after this dreadful event."

Forensics teams could be seen combing the now closed-off streets around Stellman Close following the horrific incident. The area is largely residential and the scene is surrounded by homes.

Detective Chief Inspector Kelly Allen, leading the investigation, said: "We know this happened in a busy area during the day and there would have been people around."

"The suspect is believed to have run away from the scene and I would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Stellman Close area around 4pm to contact police."

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 5387/23Jul or call Crimestoppers, 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111.