Throughout the month of February, we’re telling the story of the 21 teenagers who were murdered in 2023. Our campaign, The 21, seeks to remember every victim as a young person with a family and their whole life ahead of them. We want to change the culture of kids carrying knives and becoming involved in violence.

This is the face of Tafari Thompson-Mintah, a 16-year-old boy who was killed in a crash in Orpington in 2023.

Name: Tafari Thompson-Mintah

Age: 16

From: Orpington

Here is a timeline of events and everything we know so far about his death:

Monday, October 9:

Tafari Thompson-Mintah was killed while riding his moped in Sevenoaks Way at around 3.30pm.

It is believed he was deliberately struck by a red Mercedes car.

This caused the moped to veer into the path of an orange Vauxhall Mokka car.

The Mercedes driver failed to stop at the scene and the car was found abandoned nearby a short time later.

The driver of the Mokka stopped at the scene and was treated by paramedics for shock.

Detective Inspector Martin Thorpe, who is leading the investigation, said: "My thoughts are with Tafari's family at this incredibly difficult time. We will continue to support them as our investigation progresses.

"The incident happened on a busy road near to the Nugent retail park. We have already spoken to a number of witnesses, but it is vital that anyone who saw the collision comes forward immediately.

"I would also ask drivers who were on Sevenoaks Way on Monday afternoon to check their dashcams for any footage of the moped or the red Mercedes before the collision occurred."

Urgent police enquiries were underway to identify and find the driver.

Thursday, October 12:

Tafari’s family launched a GoFundMe page to raise money for his funeral.

They said: “We are heart broken by the sudden, tragic and devastating loss of our son, Tafari Mintah.

“On October 9th my beautiful son only 16 years old was tragically killed by a hit and run driver in Sevenoaks Way at approximately 3:32pm.

“Our family and friends are so distraught as Tafari had his whole life ahead of him.

“We appreciate your thoughts and prayers and if you feel you would like to support us with this profound loss we kindly ask for your financial support to help with giving Tafari a burial fit for a King.

“He did not deserve to pass away so sudden and before his time.

“No loved one should have to deal with such a sudden loss of a child, brother, grandson or uncle.

“Tafari has left behind four siblings.

“Any financial support would be truly appreciated.

“Truly Thankful for helping towards Tafari’s funeral.

“Thanks for reading and take Care.”

Joseph Barnes, of no fixed address, was arrested on October 12 on suspicion of murder.

The 40-year-old was charged and appeared in custody at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on October 16.

Monday, October 16:

Aaron Conway, 38, from Orpington, was the second to be arrested and charged with murder.

Sunday, October 29:

Justin Barton, 31 of Neasden Lane, was the third person to be arrested and charged with murder.

Newsquest London does not have information on any further developments on this case.