A murder investigation is underway after a 40-year-old man was fatally shot in a "senseless act of violence" while up to 50 people, including children, had assembled for a memorial service in Acton, west London, on Friday, police confirmed.
Shooting at memorial service
Officers were summoned to the junction of Braybrook Street and Erconwald Street following reports from members of the public who heard multiple shots at approximately 7:47pm. Despite the efforts of emergency services, the 40-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed no arrests have been made but detectives are operating urgently to establish the complete circumstances of the incident. The force stated a cordon remains in situ and a post-mortem examination has been arranged to ascertain the cause of death, though the man is believed to have suffered a gunshot wound.
Police appeal for witnesses
The victim's family have been notified and are receiving support from specialist officers, a spokesperson confirmed. Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie, who is spearheading the investigation, said the 40-year-old's life was "taken in a senseless act of violence".
He added: "We understand a large number of people had gathered for a memorial service and what should have been a time to come together in remembrance has instead left a family devastated.
"We believe between 40 and 50 people, including children, were present when this incident occurred. Someone knows what happened and we need them to come forward."
How to help the investigation
The Met has urged anybody who was in the vicinity of Erconwald Street, Braybrook Street, the surrounding roads or the Wormwood Scrubs playground between 6pm and 8pm to "please think carefully about what they saw".
DCI Howie said: "Did you see anyone carrying or concealing weapons, people on bicycles acting suspiciously, or vehicles being driven at speed?
"We also want to hear from anyone with photographs, video, dashcam, doorbell or mobile phone footage or who has seen anything relevant on social media. However insignificant it may seem, the smallest piece of information could prove crucial in helping us establish what happened and identify those responsible."
Those with information that could assist the police investigation have been encouraged to contact the force by dialling 101, quoting CAD 7011/2Oct, or by uploading it to the police major incident portal. Reports can also be submitted anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
