Man, 22, fatally stabbed 'while breaking up fight'

A 22-year-old man who was fatally stabbed in west London was trying to break up a fight, witnesses have said.

The Metropolitan Police was called to Hanworth Road, Hounslow, at about 14:20 BST on Sunday to reports of a stabbing outside the Muslim Centre.

The man was treated by paramedics for stab wounds before being taken to hospital where he later died.

His next of kin have been informed and no arrests have been made, the Met Police said. A murder investigation is under way, the force added.

Police said that while the incident happened outside the Hounslow Muslim Centre, there was nothing to suggest a link to the venue at this time.

Witnesses described the victim as a "very good man" who worked at the Menara Lounge, a Middle Eastern restaurant, next to the Muslim Centre.

One said: "It's so sad, he was only 22 and was trying to be a mediator in a fight that broke out between people outside the restaurant on the street.

"He was trying to break it up but got caught up in the fight."

Another witness said: "He was not actually involved in the fight from the start but tried to get in between those who were, to try to stop them.

"Unfortunately, he was stabbed when he was the one trying to prevent any harm."

A spokesperson for the Hounslow Muslim Centre said the Met advised all nearby outlets, including the centre, to close temporarily for forensic work.

"Hounslow Muslim Centre will remain closed for prayers and classes until at least the afternoon of 23 June," they said.

"We are fully cooperating with the authorities and thank the emergency services for their swift response."

Det Ch Insp Wayne Jolley said: "My thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim at this incredibly difficult time.

"This incident happened in a busy part of Hounslow during the middle of the afternoon. It's vital we hear from anyone who was in the area and witnessed the attack, the moments leading up to it, or the aftermath."

He also appealed for anyone with dash cam or mobile phone footage to contact the police, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

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