Crime scene photographs show a significant police presence in East Acton this morning after a man in his 40s was shot dead during a memorial service on Friday, October 2. The Metropolitan Police have launched a murder investigation following reports of multiple gunshots at the junction of Braybrook Street and Erconwald Street.
Despite the efforts of the London Ambulance Service, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. No arrests have been made, and enquiries are ongoing. A post-mortem examination is scheduled to establish the exact cause of death, though the victim is believed to have died from a gunshot wound.
Police appeal after fatal shooting at memorial gathering
Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie, who is leading the investigation, described the incident as a “senseless act of violence” that has left a family devastated. He confirmed that between 40 and 50 people, including children, were present when the shooting occurred.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of a man whose life was taken in a senseless act of violence,” Howie said. “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.”
Witnesses urged to come forward with information
Detectives are appealing for anyone who was in the area between 18:00hrs and 20:00hrs on the night of the incident to come forward. They are particularly interested in sightings of individuals carrying or concealing weapons, people on bicycles acting suspiciously, or vehicles being driven at speed.
“If you were around Erconwald Street, Braybrook Street, the surrounding roads or Wormwood Scrubs playground between 18:00hrs and 20:00hrs, please think carefully about what you saw,” Howie added. “Did you see anyone carrying or concealing weapons, people on bicycles acting suspiciously, or vehicles being driven at speed?”
Footage and photos sought in murder investigation
Police are also requesting that anyone with photographs, video, dashcam, doorbell or mobile phone footage, or who has seen anything relevant on social media, contact them. “However insignificant it may seem, the smallest piece of information could prove crucial in helping us establish what happened and identify those responsible,” Howie said.
The victim’s family has been informed of the death and is being supported by specialist police officers. Anyone with information is urged to contact police via 101, quoting CAD 7011/2Oct, or upload material to the police major incident portal. Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
