A man is critically ill after being stabbed in Brixton, South London, just hours after four people were shot in a nearby incident. Police are investigating a possible connection between the two attacks and have increased patrols in the area.

Night of Violence in Brixton

The Brixton community is reeling after a night of shocking violence that left four people with gunshot wounds and another fighting for his life following a stabbing. The incidents occurred within an hour of each other and less than 700 metres apart, prompting a major police investigation.

Shooting at 'Barbecue Party'

The first incident unfolded at 1:14 am on Saturday, May 2nd, when Metropolitan Police received reports of gunshots fired from a vehicle in Coldharbour Lane. Officers arrived on the scene within four minutes, alongside paramedics, and discovered four individuals suffering from gunshot injuries.

A 25-year-old man is in life-threatening condition, while the other three victims – aged 21, 47, and 70 – sustained injuries that are not considered life-threatening. The shooting reportedly took place during a barbecue party held near Coldharbour Lane Open Space, with witnesses describing scenes of panic.

One shop worker recounted providing shelter to fleeing individuals, locking his supermarket doors as gunshots rang out. Police have collected CCTV footage from local businesses, including Payless Food & Wine, as part of their investigation.

Stabbing on Acre Lane

Just over an hour later, at 2:17 am, police were alerted to a stabbing on nearby Acre Lane. A 33-year-old man was found with multiple stab wounds and transported to hospital, where he remains in a life-threatening condition.

Investigation Underway

The proximity of the two incidents has led investigators to explore a possible connection between the shooting and the stabbing. Detectives are meticulously examining the scenes, searching an area of grass outside the Southwyck House estate on Coldharbour Lane.

Investigators were observed inspecting debris scattered across the road, including a bicycle, a foil blanket, and various bags. Footage circulating online depicts individuals receiving CPR and paramedics attending to the injured.

Community Reaction and Police Response

Residents have expressed shock and concern over the escalating violence. One resident stated that while there have been previous incidents, nothing of this magnitude had occurred before. Another resident, who attended the barbecue, described the event as ‘packed’ and expressed a general feeling of safety prior to the incident.

Detective Chief Inspector Allam Bhangoo described the shooting as an ‘act of indiscriminate violence’ and emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to bringing those responsible to justice. The Metropolitan Police have announced an increased police presence in Brixton to provide reassurance and deter further violence.

The police are appealing for information related to both the shooting (reference CAD 557/2May) and the stabbing (reference CAD 907/2May). The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine if the incidents are linked and to identify the perpetrators.