The family of 24-year-old Ernest Kalawa, who was stabbed to death on December 30 in Peckham, have released a statement asking for witnesses to assist the police.
The young man was found with multiple stab wounds, including a slash on his neck, in Haymerle Road. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene after they were called just after 5.30pm.
One man was arrested on Saturday, and released on bail until a date in April. A post-mortem held on January 1 confirmed the cause of death was multiple stab wounds.
Ernest’s grieving family have today made a statement via the Met Police.
The family said: “Ernest’s tragic death is a massive loss to the family. Everyone is in shock and struggling to come to terms with the loss of our son, brother, cousin, and friend. At the moment the pain is still very fresh.
“Our family only really want time and space to grieve in private, and ask that the press and media respect our wishes. Ernest was loved and cherished and we all miss him deeply.”
Detective chief inspector Lee Watling from the Homicide and Major Crime Command, said: “Did you see anything suspicious around 5.30pm last Friday afternoon near Haymerle Road or Frensham Street, Peckham?
“I am extremely keen to hear from anyone who was in the area of this tragic incident as they may hold vital information that will assist our investigation. I would urge anyone who witnessed the assault or the moments leading up to it to call police and tell us what they know.”
The police’s incident room is ready to take your calls from witnesses on 020 8721 4205. Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111.