Victim named in Croydon murder investigation

Detectives investigating a fatal stabbing in Croydon have named the victim.

Police were called to Hesterman Way, Croydon, at around 01:15hrs on Sunday, 15 February following reports of a stabbing. Officers attended with the London Ambulance Service and found three men with stab wounds.

A 22-year-old man was taken to hospital by the London Ambulance Service, where despite the efforts of medical staff he sadly died.

Officers are now in a position to name the victim as Lorik Abazi, from Croydon. His family are being supported by specialist officers.

In a tribute, Lorik’s family said:

“Lorik was a caring, smart young man with a good sense of humour and his whole future ahead of him.

“We, his parents, brother, girlfriend, grandparents and extended family and friends loved him very much. A light has gone out in our lives, and we are devastated beyond words by his loss. We kindly ask for privacy at this time.”

Two women, both aged 25, and a 28-year-old man, were arrested on suspicion of murder on the afternoon of Sunday, 15 February. They remain in police custody. One of the women has been released on bail while the investigation continues.

Detectives investigating Lorik’s murder are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or who has information to come forward. They have also asked that anyone with information, CCTV or dash cam footage that could be relevant to the investigation submits it online via the Major Incident Public Portal.

Chief Superintendent Nick Blackburn, who leads policing in the area, said:

“My thoughts are with Lorik’s family and loved ones, who have suffered an unimaginable loss.

“Detectives are working around-the-clock to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice. I want to appeal to anyone with knowledge of what happened or who has footage that could help our detectives to share it with the police.

“I know a tragic incident like this will concern people locally. We believe this to have been an isolated incident and I hope the fact we have a number of suspects in custody provides some reassurance to people in Croydon. We have increased patrols in the local area and I would ask anyone with concerns to speak to my officers.”

Two men, both 21-years-old, were also arrested on suspicion of affray. One has potentially life-threatening injuries and remains in hospital. The other has been taken into police custody after being discharged from hospital.

Two other women, aged 21 and 22, were also arrested on suspicion of affray. The 21-year-old woman has been bailed while enquires continue and the 22-year-old woman remains in police custody.

This brings the total number of people arrested in connection to this incident to seven.

Anyone with any information with any information is asked to call 101 quoting ref CAD511/15Feb. They can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.