South London residents ‘woken by screams’ after young man killed in group clash

Residents of a south London neighborhood have described how they were ‘woken by screams’ after a group fight ended with the death of a young man.

Police responded to reports of an incident on Livingstone Road in Thornton Heath just before 5am on Thursday. 

They were alerted by locals after a group started fighting in the neighborhood.

Following the incident, police confirmed that a man in his 20s involved in the clash had ‘self-presented’ at a hospital where he later died. 

Three men, aged 28, 38 and 44, have been arrested on suspicion of murder. They have been remanded in custory.

A pensioner who lives near the crime scene told Metro: ‘There was screaming and a huge commotion which woke us up.  I moved the curtains and saw a young man on the ground at one point.

‘Some neighbors came out to see what was happening and  then the street was flooded by police.’ 

Another resident said: ‘We thought it was drunks shouting then the police arrived and we realised it was more serious. Our hearts go out to his family.’

A mother of three said: ‘It’s very upsetting for us all you can still see bloodstains on the path. I don’t know what to tell my kids.’

Officers carried out door-to-door inquiries on Friday and are appealing for people living nearby with Ring doorbell footage to come forward.

Forensics experts have also been on the scene. 

Police said the fight had started in nearby Prince’s Road but had then continued on Livingstone Road. 

Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, who is leading the investigation, said: ‘Our thoughts are first and foremost with the victim’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time.

‘Officers responded swiftly to this incident and three men have been arrested as part of our ongoing investigation.

‘At this stage, we believe this to be an isolated incident however, local residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days while enquiries continue.’ 

The victim’s family are being supported by specially trained officers. 

A police statement said: ‘Police were called to Livingstone Road at 04:52hrs on Thursday, 9 July, following reports of an assault.

‘Officers attended the scene and were assisted by members of the public, who reported that a fight had taken place involving a group of men. It is believed the incident was linked to an earlier altercation in Prince’s Road shortly beforehand.

‘A man in his 20s later self-presented at a local hospital with injuries consistent with a stab wound. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he was sadly pronounced dead. Police enquiries quickly identified this man as being involved in the incident in Livingstone Road.’ 

Anyone with information, or any footage relating to the incident is asked to contact police on 101. To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.