A TEEN who allegedly chased down and stabbed a schoolgirl to death as she protected her friend has today been pictured for the first time.
Hassan Sentamu is accused of murdering 15-year-old Elianne Andam while she made her way to school in Croydon, South London.
Hassan Sentamu can today be identified for the first time
He is accused of stabbing Elianne Andam to death
Ray CollinsThe horror unfolded at a bus stop in Croydon[/caption]
He had been granted anonymity due to his age but can today be identified for the first time after turning 18.
Sentamu has pleaded guilty to manslaughter after he accepted inflicting the fatal knife wound.
But he has denied murder and possessing a blade in a public place.
Sentamu, who lives in Croydon, is due to stand trial for murder on November 25.
The court heard previously how the alleged attack on Elianne last September was “brutal”.
She had been attempting to take back her friend’s teddy bear from an ex-boyfriend on the way to school when she was killed, it is said.
Passers-by attempted to save Elianne but tragically she passed away shortly after.
A post mortem found she suffered multiple stab wounds in the horror.
Hundreds of people – including rapper Stormzy – paid tribute to the teen in a candlelit vigil.
Elianne’s mother, Dorcas Andam, said her daughter was “smart, charismatic” and “loved living life to the fullest”.
The mum added: “She brought joy to so many, including her friendship group.
“She was an amazing, beautiful, girl.
“She loved and touched lives around her.”
In a moving tribute, the schoolgirl’s family added: “We as a family are struggling to comprehend this painful tragedy that has happened to our beautiful daughter and beloved sister Elianne.
“Our hearts are broken.
“Elianne was a beautiful person inside and out who loved Jesus. She was intelligent, thoughtful, kind and had a bright future ahead.
“It is our request that you keep our cherished daughter Elianne and our family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Sentamu has denied murdering the schoolgirl
YoutubeElianne was protecting a pal when she was stabbed, it is alleged[/caption]
PAThousands attended a vigil for the schoolgirl[/caption]
PARapper Stormzy was among those paying tribute[/caption]
Ray CollinsPolice leave flowers at the scene[/caption]