Two 16-Year-Old Boys Arrested in Deptford Stabbing, SE14 2026 

Key Points

• Two 16-year-old boys arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm following a stabbing incident outside a block of flats in Deptford, south east London.
• Incident occurred on Woodpecker Road near Desmond Street just after 7pm on Friday, 20 February 2026.
• A 14-year-old boy was found stabbed at the scene; he was taken to hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.
• Officers from the Metropolitan Police and London Ambulance Service crews attended the scene promptly.
• The two suspects were arrested on Saturday, 21 February 2026, and have since been bailed pending further investigation.
• Metropolitan Police enquiries continue, with a call for public information quoting CAD 6210/20Feb or via Crimestoppers anonymously.
• London Ambulance Service called at 7.01pm on 20 February to reports of the stabbing on Woodpecker Road, SE14.

Deptford (East London Times) February 25, 2026 – Two 16-year-old boys have been arrested after a 14-year-old boy was stabbed outside a block of flats in this south east London neighbourhood. The incident unfolded just after 7pm on Friday, 20 February, on Woodpecker Road near Desmond Street, prompting a swift response from emergency services. The young victim was rushed to hospital but his injuries are not considered life-threatening or life-changing, according to official statements.

What Happened During the Stabbing Incident?

Emergency services were mobilised rapidly to the scene. Officers and London Ambulance Service crews attended Woodpecker Road, where they found the 14-year-old boy with stab wounds. He received immediate medical attention before being transported to hospital for further treatment.

The precise timing underscores the urgency: the London Ambulance Service was called at 7.01pm on Friday, 20 February, to reports of a stabbing on Woodpecker Road, SE14, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the service. This detail highlights the coordinated effort between police and paramedics in a residential area known for its close-knit community.

No further specifics on the weapon or immediate circumstances have been released, maintaining the focus on the ongoing investigation.

Who Were the Suspects and What Charges Do They Face?

On Saturday, 21 February, two 16-year-old boys were arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm. Both suspects have since been bailed pending further enquiries, a standard procedure in such cases to allow for deeper investigation while ensuring public safety.

The Metropolitan Police have not released the names of the suspects, in line with protocols protecting the identity of minors involved in criminal proceedings. This arrest timeline – less than 24 hours after the incident – demonstrates proactive policing in Deptford.

How Did Emergency Services Respond?

The response was immediate and professional. Officers and London Ambulance Service crews arrived shortly after the 7.01pm call-out. The 14-year-old victim was stabilised at the scene before hospital transfer, with his condition assessed as non-life-threatening.

A spokesperson for the London Ambulance Service stated:

“We were called at 7.01pm on Friday 20 February to reports of a stabbing on Woodpecker Road, SE14.”

This direct quote, drawn from official channels, emphasises the service’s readiness in handling urban violence incidents.

Paramedics worked alongside police to secure the area, preventing further risk in the densely populated flats vicinity.

What Is the Current Status of the Investigation?

Enquiries continue, as affirmed by the Metropolitan Police. A spokesperson for the force said:

“Enquiries continue. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 6210/20Feb. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 55 111.”

This public appeal seeks witnesses or dashcam footage from the evening of 20 February, when visibility might have been aided by street lighting near Desmond Street. The bail status of the suspects allows detectives time to gather evidence without immediate court proceedings.

The investigation remains active, with no additional arrests reported as of 25 February.

Where Exactly Did the Stabbing Take Place?

Woodpecker Road near Desmond Street in Deptford, SE14, served as the focal point. This location, outside a block of flats, is a residential zone with families and young people, amplifying community concerns over youth violence.

Deptford, part of the London Borough of Lewisham, has seen periodic incidents of knife crime, though this event stands out for involving teenagers. The proximity to local amenities may have drawn the parties involved, but no motive has been disclosed.

When Did Key Events Unfold in Chronological Order?

• 7.01pm, Friday, 20 February 2026: London Ambulance Service called to Woodpecker Road, SE14, for stabbing reports.
• Just after 7pm, 20 February: Incident occurs; officers and ambulance crews arrive to find 14-year-old boy stabbed.
• Victim taken to hospital; injuries confirmed non-life-threatening.
• 21 February: Two 16-year-old boys arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.
• Both bailed pending further investigation.
• Ongoing as of 25 February: Police enquiries continue with public appeal.

This timeline, pieced from official statements, reflects a rapid progression from attack to arrests.

Why Is Public Information Crucial Now?

The Metropolitan Police’s call for tips underscores the investigative gap. Witnesses in the flats or passing vehicles could provide pivotal details. Quoting CAD 6210/20Feb ensures efficient routing of information.

Crimestoppers offers anonymity via 0800 55 111, encouraging those fearing reprisal to come forward. As reported across initial wires, community vigilance remains key in resolving such cases swiftly.

Who Is the Victim and What Is Known About His Condition?

The victim, a 14-year-old boy, sustained stab wounds but his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing. Hospital treatment followed on-scene care, with no updates on discharge.

Protecting his identity aligns with safeguarding minors, a priority in youth-related crimes. His age – younger than the suspects – raises questions about peer dynamics in Deptford.

What Measures Are in Place Post-Arrest?

Bail for the two 16-year-old boys includes conditions typical for GBH suspicions, such as residency requirements or no-contact orders, though specifics are withheld. This allows forensic analysis and witness interviews to proceed.

The Metropolitan Police’s ongoing enquiries suggest potential for further action, including CCTV review from Woodpecker Road.

How Does This Fit Into Broader Deptford Concerns?

While this article draws directly from the incident details, Deptford’s context includes rising worries over knife crime among youth. The swift arrests signal effective local policing, yet the event prompts reflection on prevention.

No linked incidents have been noted, keeping focus on this standalone case.

What Should Witnesses Do Next?

Anyone with information must act promptly. Call 101 quoting CAD 6210/20Feb, or use Crimestoppers at 0800 55 111 for anonymity. As the Metropolitan Police spokesperson emphasised: “Enquiries continue.”

Residents near Desmond Street or Woodpecker Road flats are best placed to assist, potentially via mobile footage or recollections from 20 February evening.

Broader Implications for South East London Youth Safety?

This stabbing highlights persistent challenges with adolescent violence in urban areas like Deptford. The non-fatal outcome offers relief, but arrests of peers aged 16 underscore the need for early intervention programmes.

Authorities balance enforcement with youth support, as bail allows rehabilitation opportunities alongside justice.