A 25-year-old man has been shot and killed by drive-by gunmen at a barbecue party in Brixton, south London, as his devastated family paid tribute to a young man whose “smile could light up a room.”
Keanu Taylor, also known as Bish or Lil Bish, was among four people struck by gunfire outside the Southwyck House estate on Coldharbour Lane in the early hours of Saturday morning. He was rushed to hospital in a life-threatening condition but later died. Three others — aged 21, 47 and 70 — were also hospitalised, though their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.
In a heartfelt tribute, Mr Taylor’s family said: “Keanu was a loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, grandson and friend. He was loved by everyone and his smile would light up a room. Keanu had the world at his feet, and he’s left a huge hole in our family. Our hearts are absolutely broken.” Friends took to social media to mourn his loss, and flowers and written tributes accompanied by a photograph of Mr Taylor have since been left at the scene.
Metropolitan Police officers were called to the scene at 1.14am following reports of gunshots and arrived within four minutes, providing emergency first aid alongside paramedics. The area had been filled with people attending a barbecue when the shots rang out. Witnesses described terrified bystanders fleeing into a nearby supermarket for shelter. Moh John, 45, who works at Payless Food & Wine, told how frightened people rushed into his shop, prompting him to lock the door behind them. He confirmed that police had since collected the store’s CCTV footage.
Detectives are also investigating a possible link between the shooting and a separate stabbing that occurred approximately 700 metres away on Acre Lane around an hour later, in which a 33-year-old man was knifed multiple times and left in a life-threatening condition.
No arrests have yet been made. Detective Chief Inspector Allam Bhangoo, who is leading the investigation, said: “This was a shocking act of violence which 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.”
An increased police presence has been deployed in the area. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 557/2May, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
