A teenager has been charged with murder after a 16-year-old student was killed in a “senseless” stabbing near school gates.

Rennell Charles, 16, has been named as the boy who was killed in the fatal stabbing on Markhouse Road, next to Kelmscott school in Walthamstow on Friday (May 5).

Metropolitan Police has said that a boy, 16, has been charged on Monday (May 8) with Renell’s murder.

He will appear in custody at Stratford Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (May 9).

Emergency services were called to the school road at 4.09pm to reports of a stabbing.

Despite their efforts, Renell died at the scene a short time later and his family continue to be supported by specialist officers.

A post-mortem examination found that the teenager had died from a stab wound to the chest.

Kelmscott School headteacher Sam Jones called it a “senseless knife attack” and said it is the “darkest days” for the student’s family and the Kelmscott community.

Cllr Grace Williams, leader of Waltham Forest Council, said: “Nobody should have to deal with the loss of somebody so young and my heart goes out to the family and friends of the deceased.

“Their loss is our loss. The people of Waltham Forest and beyond will be shocked by this senseless act.”

Anyone with information or footage who has not yet spoken with police are encouraged to submit images or footage through the public portal mipp.police.uk or call the Major Incident Room directly on 020 8345 3715.

You can also Tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 4965/5MAY or remain anonymous through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.