Max Moy-Wheatley murder case dropped by CPS six months after Petts Wood stabbing

The Crown Prosecution Service has discontinued proceedings against two men charged with the murder of Max Moy-Wheatley, who was fatally stabbed in Jubilee Park, Petts Wood, on 20 September 2023. The decision was made in March 2024, six months after the attack, which took place at around 2.30pm.

Max, 19, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two men, aged 18 and 19, were arrested ten days later and charged with his murder. Neither has been named by police. The CPS has not publicly explained why the case was dropped.

Investigation remains open

Detective Inspector Adam Guttridge, leading the investigation, told News Shopper on the first anniversary of Max’s death that the inquiry remains active. He described it as a ‘challenging’ case but said detectives were keeping an open mind about the circumstances.

Guttridge said evidence suggested there had been a ‘coming together’ of different groups in Jubilee Park on the day of the attack. He did not specify whether the groups were known to each other or what their connection to Max might have been.

Appeal for witnesses

The Metropolitan Police has urged anyone with information to come forward. Witnesses can contact officers on 101 or 020 7175 2206, quoting reference CAD 3972/20Sep2023. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The force has confirmed it never closes unsolved murder investigations. A spokesperson said it continues to assess any new information that comes to light, regardless of how much time has passed.

What happens next

The investigation into Max Moy-Wheatley’s death remains open. No further arrests have been announced since the CPS discontinued proceedings. Police have not indicated whether they are pursuing alternative lines of inquiry or awaiting new evidence.

The next formal step would be a review of the case by the Met’s Homicide and Major Crime Command. Such reviews are conducted periodically to assess whether advances in forensic technology or new witness accounts could progress the investigation.