Adam John Henry was found injured in Westbourne Road just after 1pm on December 9, after emergency services rushed to reports of a stabbing.
London’s Air Ambulance, a charity reserved for the city’s most seriously ill patients, was also dispatched.
Adam died in hospital.
His next of kin are being supported by specialist officers.
In a written statement, his family said: “Our beautiful son, Adam, was cruelly taken away from us on Tuesday afternoon. He was a loving son, brother, nephew, grandson, friend and we will never recover from the loss and not having him in our lives.
“He had many interests and was always there with a smile and cheeky sense of humour. He was good natured and loyal. While only 15 years old, the beautiful memories we have of him can never be forgotten.
“We ask for privacy as a family so we can grieve and try to process this senseless tragedy together.
“We also request that as this is an active homicide investigation and a broken-hearted family and community, that you refrain from speculation and allow the police to do their job.”
A crime scene will remain in place on the estate for the rest of today (December 11) and into tomorrow (December 12).
Chf Supt Jason Stewart said: “Our thoughts remain with Adam’s family and loved ones and anyone in the local community who has been affected by Adam’s tragic death.
“This is the second time Islington has lost a young person just before Christmas in the last two years – we know the impact on the community is profound.
“Additional police patrols are being deployed across the local area and at key times when children are travelling to and from school.
“Youth workers deployed by our partners at Islington council will also be on hand in the area to speak with local young people and offer support. We hope this goes some way to reassuring parents, who are understandably worried for their children’s safety.
“We encourage anyone with concerns or questions to approach officers at any time.
READ MORE: Residents shocked after schoolboy stabbed to death in ‘familiar scene’ in Islington
“Our team of detectives and forensic specialists are working at pace to establish the events which led to Adam’s murder. We’d ask any witnesses or anyone with information about the incident to please contact us as soon as possible.”
Anyone who has information that may help police with their investigation is asked to contact police on 101 quoting ref CAD 3568/09DEC.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
