Teen Hassan Sentamu who ‘chased down & stabbed girl, 15, to death as she protected friend on way to school’ is pictured
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.
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”.
The keen gymnast and cheerleader was allegedly ambushed shortly after she got off a bus with friends near the Whitgift Shopping Centre.
She had been attempting to take back her pal’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.
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 said they were “struggling to comprehend this painful tragedy”.
They added: “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.”