16-Year-Old Charged with Murder After Teenager Stabbed in Feltham
A 16-year-old boy has been formally charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of an 18-year-old man in Feltham, north-west London. The victim, identified as Maliki Sharma, was discovered with multiple stab wounds on Victoria Road on the evening of 12 January.
Victim Described as 'Lovely Boy' with Aspirations
Maliki Sharma has been remembered by his family as a "lovely boy" who was exceptionally close to his mother and older brother. A spokesperson for the family expressed profound devastation, stating, "It's just devastating, it's absolutely devastating. He was such a funny, kind, caring, lovely young man. He had his whole life ahead of him."
Mr Sharma was a dedicated student at West Thames College, where he was actively training to become an electrician. The family friend revealed, "He wanted to go down that route – get a trade, do his own business, so that he could look after his mum, that's what he always said." He added, "He really, really was a lovely boy. He was cheeky, funny."
Police Investigation and Court Proceedings
Metropolitan Police officers were dispatched to Victoria Road in Feltham at approximately 5pm on 12 January after receiving reports of the incident. Upon arrival, they found Maliki Sharma with severe stab wounds. He was rushed to hospital but was later pronounced dead. Specialist officers are currently providing support to his grieving family.
In the subsequent investigation, three teenagers were arrested. One 16-year-old boy from Hounslow was charged with murder on Friday. Due to his age, he cannot be named publicly. He appeared at Willesden Magistrates' Court on Saturday and has been remanded into custody. He is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday.
Additional Charges and Community Impact
Two other 16-year-old boys, also from Hounslow, have been charged with conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm. They have been remanded into youth detention. Additionally, Rhys Huskinson, a 19-year-old from North Road in Feltham, was charged on Wednesday with affray and possession of an offensive weapon in connection with the investigation. Following further police inquiries, these charges have been amended to attempted grievous bodily harm.
Detective Chief Inspector Allam Bhangoo, who is leading the investigation, stated, "My thoughts remain with Maliki's friends and family during this unimaginably difficult time." He added, "We understand that this incident has been distressing for the local community and residents can expect to see an increased police presence over the coming days."
