One dead, three injured after shooting at gathering in south London

A murder investigation has been initiated following a shooting at a barbecue in Brixton, south London.

Emergency services were called to Coldharbour Lane on Saturday morning after four people were shot.

Keanu Taylor, 25, was taken to hospital but has since passed away.

Three others – aged 21, 47, and 70 – were also taken to hospital. Their injuries have been assessed as not life-threatening or life-changing.

No arrests have been made.

An 18-year-old who was at the barbecue but did not want to be named said: ‘It was crazy. Everybody was panicking and running for their lives. There were no issues at the party before that.

‘It was just people relaxing. There were families around. Whoever did this didn’t care who they hit.’ 

A 28-year-old mother-of-two, whose home is opposite the barbecue location where the gunman attacked, said: ‘It was total mayhem. I heard bangs, but I thought it was fireworks set off at the barbecue across the road.

‘There were about 50 people; they often meet there when it’s sunny and it’s not usually a problem.

‘But as soon as I saw the police and paramedics at the scene, I knew it was serious.

‘One person who was shot was a pensioner; there were different generations at the party, my neighbors said.

‘A stray bullet could have gone through my window. I fear for my kids.

‘Keelen was killed just over the road, and there is a constant reminder with the memorial. We are starting to call Coldharbour Lane ‘murder mile.’

Detective Chief Inspector Allam Bhangoo said: ‘As we work quickly to identify those responsible, our thoughts are with Keanu’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

‘This was a shocking act of violence that has had a devastating impact on those involved and the local community. I want to reassure residents that we are working urgently to identify and apprehend those responsible.

‘It is vital that anyone who saw what happened or has any information or footage comes forward. Even the smallest detail could prove crucial to our investigation.

‘Local residents will continue to see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days. If you have any concerns, please speak to officers.’