A murder investigation has been launched by Scotland Yard after a 40-year-old man was shot dead in front of up to 50 people who had gathered for a memorial service in East Acton, West London.
The Metropolitan Police said officers were called to the junction of Braybrook Street and Erconwald Street at around the time the victim was killed. Multiple shots were heard in the area, and the man was pronounced dead at the scene despite the efforts of emergency services.
Up to 50 people had assembled nearby for a memorial service when the shooting took place, according to the force. The gathering had been arranged to remember someone else, making the attack a second tragedy for those present.
No arrests have been made, and a police cordon remains in place around the junction as forensic officers examine the scene. A manhunt is under way for the person or persons responsible.
The Metropolitan Police described the killing as a «senseless act of violence». Senior officers have appealed for witnesses and for anyone with information or footage to come forward.
The victim has not yet been formally identified. A post-mortem examination is expected to take place in due course as part of the standard murder investigation process.
Local residents expressed shock at the shooting, which occurred in a residential street in daylight hours. The area around Braybrook Street and Erconwald Street was sealed off while investigators worked.
The investigation is being led by homicide detectives from the Metropolitan Police. They are examining whether the shooting was targeted and whether it is linked to any wider dispute.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is asked to contact the police or Crimestoppers anonymously.