Operation Welford
Police are launching an appeal for information from the public following the death of 16 year old Shayne HAMBAKACHERE. Shayne is believed to have been stabbed in a public place in the London Road area of Chippenham, Wiltshire on Saturday 31st January 2026 at approximately 15.50hrs.
APPEAL FOR INFORMATION
At 15.52hrs on January 31st 2026 emergency services were called in response to a 16 year old male being found with stab wounds.
Police and Ambulance attempted to save his life at the scene before taking him to hospital, but sadly he succumbed to his injuries on the evening of February 1st 2026.
A 15 year old male has been arrested on suspicion of murder following this incident.
DI Darren Ambrose, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said, "We recognise the concern and sadness that this needless death of a young person will cause the community and we wish to pay our respects to his family.
People living in the area can expect to see an enhanced police presence over the coming days, with a scene in place and further house to house and CCTV enquiries ongoing.
We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed what took place or who may have further information to contact us as a matter of urgency. We would also like to hear from anyone who may have camera footage taken from the time on the methods listed.
As this is an ongoing investigation, I would request that people refrain from publicly speculating about the circumstances. If you have information, please share it with our investigation team as soon as possible, or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously."
Contact Information
If you prefer to speak to someone, please call 101 quoting Crime Ref 54260012628. Tell the call handler you have information relating to ‘Operation Welford’ which is the dedicated incident room investigating this death.
Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestopper-uk.org