A TEENAGER from North Acton was today (17) convicted of murder following the fatal stabbing of a 17-year-old.

Victor Lee was described by his family as shy, introspective, easily manipulated and at risk of being exploited by others.

Nearly a year ago, he was stabbed close to the Grand Union Canal in Scrubs Lane and pushed into the canal.

Despite people quickly rescuing him from the water and emergency treatment by 999 crews, he died at the scene.

Elijah Gookol-Mely, 18, of Australia Road, Shepherds Bush, was found guilty by a majority verdict following a trial at the Old Bailey.

He will be sentenced at the same court next month.

Two other teenagers, aged 14 and 15 at the time of the attack, were found not guilty of murder and robbery following the conclusion of the trial.

Police linked Gookol-Mely to the murder through analysis of mobile phones, as well as CCTV from the crime scene, accounts from witnesses and forensic evidence.

A knife was recovered from Gookol-Mely’s home address, on which Victor’s blood and the defendant’s DNA was found.

Detectives established that robbery was the motive for the brutal attack, with Gookol-Mely stealing Victor’s bike and his rucksack, which officers believe contained a number of knives.

Victor had met his killer, having developed an interest in buying weapons online, which he wished to sell for profit.

Officers believe Victor did not fully understand the harm that could be caused.

Det Chief Insp Brian Howie, senior investigating officer, said: “Victor was a young man who was not directly involved with gangs or criminality.

“He had an interest in buying, fixing and selling bikes. He had energy and drive but sadly not enough wisdom.

“Victor brought a crossbow online in the days before he was killed and seems to have sold this to his killer on the day of his murder.

“Apparently unable to grasp the devastating consequences of his actions, he probably regarded this as an interesting scheme to make some money.”