A homicide investigation has commenced following the fatal stabbing of a 22-year-old man in Hounslow, located in west London.
The Metropolitan Police responded to reports of a stabbing just outside the Hounslow Muslim Centre on Hanworth Road around 14:20 BST on Sunday.
Paramedics attended to the victim’s stab wounds before transporting him to the hospital, where he subsequently succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities have updated that the victim’s relatives have been notified, although no arrests have yet been made.
The police have indicated that, despite the incident occurring outside the Hounslow Muslim Centre, there are currently no indications tying the venue to the event.
Eyewitnesses characterized the victim as a “very good man,” noting that he was employed at the Menara Lounge, a Middle Eastern restaurant adjacent to the centre.
One witness recounted, “It’s heartbreaking; he was just 22 and was trying to mediate in a dispute among people outside the restaurant when the violence erupted. He intervened to de-escalate the situation but became embroiled in the altercation.”
Another witness stated, “He wasn’t part of the fight initially but attempted to intervene to prevent further aggression. Sadly, he ended up being stabbed while trying to protect others.”
A representative from the Hounslow Muslim Centre reported that the Metropolitan Police had recommended a temporary closure of all nearby establishments, including the centre, for forensic investigations.
“The Hounslow Muslim Centre will remain closed for prayers and classes until at least the afternoon of June 23,” they announced. “We are fully cooperating with law enforcement and appreciate the prompt response of the emergency services.”
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley expressed his condolences, saying, “My thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends during this extremely challenging time. This incident unfolded in a bustling area of Hounslow in the afternoon, and it is crucial for us to hear from anyone who was present and witnessed the attack, the events leading up to it, or its aftermath.”
He further urged anyone who may have dash cam or mobile phone footage to reach out to the police, or to provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers.
