A young man has been stabbed to death in broad daylight after trying to be a “mediator” in a fight in west London, locals have said.
Police were called shortly after 2.20pm on Sunday to reports of a stabbing in Hanworth Road, outside the Hounslow Muslim Centre, the Met Police said.
The victim, named locally as 22-year-old Dara Sayed Barham, worked two jobs, including one at a restaurant near where the incident took place.
He was treated for stab wounds by paramedics before being taken to hospital, where he sadly died, the Met Police said.
Witnesses spoke highly of the victim, describing him 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: “There was so much blood on the street and there were so many people around.
“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 at least three times when he was the one trying to prevent any harm.”
Farhan Ali, 31, lives in Hounslow and has been running a phone shop for nine years near where the incident took place.
He said of the victim: “He was such a good guy, and so hard-working too.
“He was my best customer and would often send people up from the restaurant he worked at to help my business.
“He was only 22 and it’s so sad – life is so short.
“I’ve known him for six years and he is a big part of the community here and an amazing person.”
One friend of the victim said: “He used to bring me sandwiches from the restaurant, and he’d always stop to chat.
“He has died for nothing. He was taken too soon. Nobody had a bad word to say about Dara.”
His next of kin has been informed and a crime scene remains in place.
No arrests have been made and detectives from the Met are leading the investigation.
The force has said there is nothing to suggest the attack is linked to Hounslow Muslim Centre.
Detective Chief Inspector 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.
“If you think you might have caught any dash cam or mobile phone footage, please contact the police as soon as possible."
"You may have vital information that could assist our investigation."
Anyone who can assist the investigation team is asked to call 101 quoting 4387/22Jun, or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
