Police are appealing for information five years after the murder of James Andre Smartt-Ford
07 February 2012
Description
Five years after 17-year-old James Andre Smartt-Ford was shot dead at an ice rink in Streatham, police continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward.
At approx. 22:55hrs on 3 February 2007, officers responded to reports of a shooting at Streatham Ice Rink, Streatham High Road SW16.
Andre [20.11.89 - 17 ys] of south-west London was taken to St George's Hospital where he was pronounced dead at midnight.
Detectives from Trident continue to investigate, but as yet no one has been charged in connection with Andre's murder.
The Metropolitan Police Service is offering a substantial reward of up to £20,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and prosecution of the person(s) responsible.
On the night of the murder, the rink was holding a disco attended by more than 300 people, the majority aged in their mid to late teens.
Shortly before 23:00hrs Andre, or 'Dre' as he was known to his family and friends, was in the area at the bottom of the stairs leading onto the ice, when he was approached by a black youth wearing dark clothing.
It is at this point that two shots were fired at him.
Andre managed to stagger a few metres onto the ice, before collapsing.
A post-mortem examination gave cause of death as gunshot wounds.
Detective Inspector Henry Lindsey, from the Trident team investigating Andre's murder, said:
"Five years have now passed since Andre was brutally murdered in front of a significant number of witnesses.
"We want to hear from anyone who may remember something from that night and ask that those who have not spoken to us before come forward and help us bring the murderer or murderers to justice.
"We believe there are people out there who hold key information that could help the investigation.
"We remain determined to solve this murder and bring some resolution for Andre and his family."
Officers are appealing for anyone who may have information, or who was at the event, to call the incident room on 020 8247 4554; if you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
+ There have been a total of 18 arrests in connection with the investigation - including seven on the night of the murder. All have since been released without further action.
- James Andre Smartt-Ford