THE FAMILY of a teenager who was stabbed to death after he was ambushed by two men are fundraising for his funeral.

The victim, named locally as Elijah Dornelly, is believed to have lived in the Higham Hill area of Walthamstow.

The 17-year-old was attacked as he walked with a friend along Walthamstow High Street on Sunday night at around 11.30pm.

He was found dying from a stab wound and taken to hospital where he died shortly after.

Elijah was a past pupil at Kelmscott Secondary School in Markhouse Road, Walthamstow. The school has refused to comment.

Friends of the victim have said on social media that Elijah attended Leyton Sixth Form College in Essex Road, Leyton, for a week. The vice principal has refused to confirm this.

A GoFundMe page has been set up by Edith Dornelly.

A statement on the page read: “Following his death, it has left family and friends of Elijah’s to be distraught, knowing what an amazing personality that shone so bright.

“A gleaming smile that would lighten the misery of each day.

“Wherever he set foot a joyful bubble followed him every step of the way and now he leaves us without a warning, farewell or goodbye.

“We all sit here shattered in regret, sorrow and pain questioning why.

“Any money contributed would be appreciated by all, as every one of your donations would go towards his burial. Thank you and may God bless you all.”

To donate to the campaign click here.

Police have not made any arrests.

DCI Matt Bonner, who is leading the investigation, said his team are investigating whether two suspects left the area on bikes after “laying in wait” for the victim.

Any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to call detectives on 020 8358 0400 or contact via Twitter @MetCC.

To give information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.