A teenager accused of stabbing a 15-year-old schoolboy in a ‘planned killing’ in east London has appeared in court charged with murder.
Police found Pharrell Garcia collapsed on the ground in Hackney having suffered fatal stab wounds at around 4pm on July 23 where he died at the scene.
The teenager was killed close to Benthal Primary School, where it is believed he had picked up his little sister before going on to meet a friend.
He was then attacked in what prosecutors allege was a targeted assault, with the suspect wearing a balaclava seen running away from the scene.
A 15-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested after the incident and later charged with murder.
Police found teenager Pharrell Garcia (pictured) collapsed on the ground in Hackney having suffered fatal stab wounds at around 4pm on July 23 and died at the scene
It is understood the schoolboy was stabbed to death after picking up his younger sister from primary school
He appeared via video-link from Vinney Green youth detention centre at the Old Bailey today for a preliminary hearing before Judge Alexia Durran .
It is alleged that the defendant had an issue with Pharrell and had planned the youngster’s killing.
Prosecutors claim the youth disguised himself in dark clothing, wearing a balaclava with his hood up, armed with a multi-tool bladed weapon.
He had allegedly sought out the victim in the park and asked to speak where others couldn’t see, the court heard.
Judge Alexia Durran remanded him in youth detention ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing on 11 October.
She added: ‘He is said to have entered a small park at Stellman Close and appears to have been disguised in the sense he had his hood up and was wearing a balaclava.
‘The prosecution case is he pulled Pharrell towards him and moved out of sight of the CCTV footage.’
Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway said: ‘Tragically, 15-year-old Pharrell lost his life after he was stabbed in Stoke Newington.
‘We have informed his family, who are understandably heartbroken, and specially trained officers are supporting them at this unimaginably difficult time.
‘I know the community will be searching for answers today and will be shocked and angry at this tragic loss of life.
‘I want them to know that we will do everything in our power to provide those answers and bring those responsible to justice.
‘Our investigation continues at pace today with officers conducting house-to-house inquiries, reviewing hours of CCTV, and speaking to witnesses.
‘No one should have to lose a child and events this week in London are a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of knife crime and serious violence.
‘It tears families apart and robs our children of their futures.’
Tributes poured in for the teen on social media from shocked friends who said he always wore ‘a smile on his face’, following his tragic death.
A loved one wrote: ‘Rest in peace bro. I heard this and broke down.
A teenager 15, who can’t be named for legal reasons, appeared at the Old Bailey charged with murder today (pictured: Pharrell Garcia)
The defendant, who spoke only to confirm his identity by video-link from Vinney Green Secure Unit, was remanded into youth detention.
‘You have left your loved ones not just in tears but filled with questions.
‘You always would argue and fight me, make me laugh and walk around with a smile on your face. Can’t really say much other than Rip. Big bro.’
Other friends posted videos of memories they had shared together, with the label ‘LLP. Gonna miss my brother man.’
The defendant, who spoke only to confirm his identity by video-link from Vinney Green Secure Unit, was remanded into youth detention.
