Police launch Abbey Street murder hunt

Police were called to a flat in Abbey Street, SE1 at around 1am by neighbours who heard shots being fired. They found the victim near the door of his home. He was declared dead at the scene.

The victim is believed to have been shot several times. A post mortem examination was due to take place on Thursday at 5pm at Westminster Mortuary.

Police believe that they know the identity of the dead man but he has not been formally identified at this stage and officers are attempting to contact his next of kin.

The investigation is being led by the Specialist Crimes Directorate. DCI Peter Valentine said two men were seen leaving the area in a car around the time of the shooting. They are believed to be black.

He said: "We are keeping an open mind about the motive for the shooting at this stage. We need to hear from anyone who was in the area of Abbey Street, near the junction with Maltby Street, in the early hours of this morning.

"Did you witness anything of the incident? Did you hear shots being fired? Do you remember seeing a car speeding away from the area, either before or after 0100?"

Anyone with any information should contact the incident room on 8785 8056 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111