Man Killed in Peckham Machete Attack Had Returned to Aid Friend, Police Reveal
Murder detectives have identified a man who was fatally stabbed during a brutal machete attack outside a nightclub in Peckham, south London. The victim, Aurelio Mejía, aged 26, was knifed in the neck during a violent altercation that left two other men fighting for their lives in hospital.
Violent Clash Outside Laxa Lounge
Police and paramedics were called to Ruby Street at 3.54am on Monday following reports of a fight outside the Laxa Lounge. Aurelio Mejía was discovered with stab wounds and pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin are currently being supported by specialist officers from the Metropolitan Police.
Two additional men, both in their twenties, sustained severe injuries during the incident and remain in a life-threatening condition in hospital. Four suspects, one aged 18 and three aged 24, were arrested later that same day on suspicion of murder and remain in police custody.
Witness Accounts Describe Chaotic Scene
Witnesses reported that two groups of men clashed outside the club, with the victim being knifed in the neck. He managed to stagger approximately 40 yards before collapsing in a pool of blood. One eyewitness told Metro: "There were machetes and extreme violence. Two groups of men, who I think had been in the club, were fighting."
The witness added: "It seemed the man who died had gone back to help his friend. He had a neck wound from what I could see. Another had a bleeding leg. They were all Portuguese or Spanish-speaking. It seemed they had all been to the same event. They all had cars parked nearby."
Another local resident, a mother-of-two living near the scene, described the aftermath: "There was some shouting and I thought it was just someone boozed up. Obviously the club opens late sometimes as it's hired out for parties. But I saw blue lights and looked out and there were police everywhere – it was carnage."
Community Shock and Police Investigation
A student residing in a nearby block expressed fear, stating: "It's terrifying, even my mum heard about it on the news. To live in a crime scene and crossing a police line to get to university is awful." The Laxa Lounge remains closed, with police cordons still in place as forensic officers scour the area for weapons and clues.
Detectives are meticulously reviewing CCTV footage and doorbell camera recordings to piece together the events leading to the attack. DCI Neil John, leading the Met's investigation, stated: "This is a deeply tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the victim's family during this difficult time."
He continued: "We have already arrested four men and our investigation continues at pace. We are aware of the concern that this will cause the local community and those in the area will notice an increased police presence throughout the day. This assault occurred outside a busy nightclub, and we'd encourage anyone who has any information, dashcam or mobile phone footage which could support the investigation to contact us."
Authorities are urging anyone with information or footage to call 101. The incident has sent shockwaves through the Peckham community, highlighting concerns over nightclub violence and public safety in the area.
