Rye man arrested after fatal stabbing of a teenager in Hastings

The 17-year-old victim, named in one news source as Jacob Woudstra, a sixth-form student in Hastings, had been stabbed twice in the chest.

Eye witnesses are reported to have seen an argument outside The Shah public house in Mount Pleasant Road, Hastings, yesterday around 3pm.

Sussex Police have said the incident does not appear to be a random attack.

Emergency services were called at around 3.20pm but the youth died at the scene.

Superintendent Trevor Botting, of Sussex Police said: “This is a tragic incident and one that has shocked the local community. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family, who understandably are devastated by the events of this afternoon.

“It is too early to speculate as to the circumstances of this tragedy, although early indications are that this was not a random attack.

“Our job now is to gather as much information as we can to build up a picture of what happened and to identify those responsible. We need the public’s help to do this and would urge anyone who thinks they have information but has not yet contacted police to do so as a matter of urgency.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police on 101, quoting Operation Chinook. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.