David Adegbite
(Picture: Met Police)The family of a teenager gunned down in east London said on Friday his death had left a “vacuum in our hearts” as a £20,000 reward was offered in new bid to catch his killer five years on from the murder.
David Adegbite, 18, was ambushed a shot dead in a Barking car in what police believe was a case of mistaken identity.
He had been visiting friends when he was attacked on 19 March 2017 in Gascoigne Road at just after 7pm.
Armed police were dispatched to the scene along with paramedics who battled to save him. However, he died in an east London hospital at 10.25pm the same day.
The Crimestoppers charity is now offering the reward to bring his killer to justice in a move welcomed by his grieving family,
In a statement they said: “Our son David left a vacuum in our heart and home since he departed from this world. We want to appeal to anyone who has information about the people responsible for his death to come forward.”
Alexa Loukas, London Regional Manager of Crimestoppers, said: “There remain crucial questions over this appalling murder, which is why we are supporting the police to help find who was responsible for this young man’s killing. An innocent victim, his family and friends along with the wider community need to see justice happen.
“Contact our charity completely anonymously by calling 0800 555 111, or fill in our simple and secure anonymous online form. Our charity supports people to speak up when they would otherwise stay silent. Now is your chance to do the right thing for David.”
A murder investigation has failed to find the shooter but police said they were determined to get a conviction,
Detective Inspector Emma Sharp, the officer leading the investigation, said: “David was just visiting friends when he was shot. He was a popular and much-loved young man who had his whole life ahead of him and that has been cruelly taken from him. David’s family and friends have had their worlds turned upside down and we are determined to get justice for them and for David.
“I’m continuing to appeal for anyone who was in the area of St Ann’s at around the time of David’s murder who saw anything suspicious to come forward. David’s killer is still out there – help us bring his family some closure by finding those responsible. If you know anything, please do the right thing and tell Crimestoppers what you know. The charity will keep you totally anonymous and pass on it on to us.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information is asked to contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or fill in a simple and secure anonymous online form on their website Crimestoppers-uk.org.
