A GANG fight involving up to 50 people has resulted in the death of a 16-year-old boy in Beckenham.

Ben Hitchcock, from nearby Penge, died in hospital as a result of a ‘stab like’ wound after he and his friends were allegedly chased by a gang of hooded youths.

Eyewitnesses reported a terrifying scene of ‘madness’ as the two groups ran through Southend Road, Beckenham, at 11.20pm on Saturday night.

It is believed that Ben, a Year 11 pupil at Kelsey Park Sports College in Beckenham, was with up to five other friends when they were allegedly attacked by a group of predominantly black youths, wearing dark clothing and hooded tops, some reportedly with towels over their heads.

Although Ben was of white ethnicity, detectives do not believe there was a racial motive to the murder at this stage.

The youngster was found by an eyewitness slumped on the ground with a wound in his lower back.

Paramedics took him to Lewisham Hospital where he later died as a result of his injuries.

Det Ch Insp John MacDonald, from the Metropolitan Police Specialist Crime Directorate (SCD), said: "It appears that the incident has involved two groups who have come together, ending in tragic circumstances and we have launched a murder investigation as a result of this incident.

"The boy had a stab wound but it was inconclusive how he received it. We hope that the post mortem results will clarify this.

"Enquiries will continue with Lewisham SCD and we appeal to anyone with information to come forward."

FULL STORY IN THE JUNE 29 EDITION OF THE BROMLEY EXTRA