Murder probe launched after man beaten to death in Ilford street attack
A murder investigation is underway after a man was brutally beaten by a group of males on High Road, Ilford, before dying from his injuries.
Gang attack caught on CCTV
Witnesses reported a violent 15-second assault captured on town CCTV, which alerted police to the scene. The attackers fled in a vehicle that officers are desperately trying to trace. Several vehicles near the scene have been seized for forensic examination.
Blue pickaxe handle found at crime scene
A blue pickaxe handle was recovered at the scene and is being examined for evidence. Police are poring over CCTV footage as they follow multiple lines of enquiry.
Brutal assault sparked huge police response
Police were called by the Ambulance Service at 2:48am to reports of a street fight. The victim was reportedly struck with what is thought to be baseball bats. He was rushed to an East London hospital but died at 4:35am.
A source close to the investigation has ruled out any connection to a recent nightclub brawl nearby, but detectives remain open-minded about the motive.
Police hunt attackers – no arrests yet
Homicide and Major Crime Command detectives, supported by local officers, have established a crime scene with road closures and bus diversions in place. No arrests have been made so far.
Anyone with information or who witnessed the attack is urged to contact the Homicide and Major Crime Command on 101, via Twitter @MetCC, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
