Claudyo Lafayette was just 17 when he was fatally stabbed on Granville Road in Brent on July 14, 2023.
His mother, Yzakia Jauad, said, “I know whatever I say or do will not bring my son back, but I am pleading for your help to get the justice my son deserves. Claudyo had a real sense of injustice when it was done to other people. He would always go out of his way to help others.”
“His friends and, especially younger children, would actually wait for him at the school gate for whatever reason. He was their safeguard which says a lot about his character,” added Jauad. “That’s why it’s my obligation as his mother to make sure we get justice for our son.”
The charity Crimestoppers is supporting the police investigation by offering up to £20,000 for information they exclusively receive – either via their website or by phone – that leads to the conviction of those responsible for Claudyo Lafayette’s murder.
This reward is available for three months and will expire on October 10, 2024.
Alexa Loukas, London Regional Manager at the charity Crimestoppers, said, “Claudyo’s death has devastated his family and friends. We know there are a number of people at the birthday party who witnessed the attack and, for whatever reason, have not come forward.”
“Maybe you saw something or heard something about the incident but don’t know who to tell, or you think it might not be important. We know that young people don’t want to speak to the police for fear of being labelled a snitch, but you can safely tell Crimestoppers.”
Loukas added, “We are not the police. We can’t identify who you are and will never ask for any of your personal details, but we can pass on what you know. Claudyo had his whole life ahead of him and stood up to injustice – he now deserves someone to come forward and do the right thing for him.”
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, who is leading the investigation, said, “A year on from Claudyo’s murder marks a year into our investigation. We have made significant progress with our enquiries, but we are yet to secure a conviction.
“There were many people around on the night of Claudyo’s murder, some of whom saw or know what happened to him. I am asking you on behalf of the police and Claudyo’s family to tell us what you know. I also ask that anyone who may have captured any footage of the incident on their phone to get in touch.”
Five people have previously been arrested in connection with the investigation and remain on bail.
