A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a man after he was attacked by two males at an Essex shopping centre.
Police were called to reports of a 'serious assault' inside Lakeside shopping centre in Thurrock, at just before 4.30pm today.
The emergency services rushed to help the victim, however he was pronounced dead at the scene.
It is reported that he was a young male, possibly in his teens, and was attacked near the shopping centre's food court.
A manhunt has now been launched to find the two men suspected of carrying out the 'targeted attack'.
Have you been affected by this incident? Email webnews@mirror.co.uk
Get all the latest news sent to your inbox. Sign up for the free Mirror newsletter
Detective Chief Inspector Scott Egerton, from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “I want to extend my condolences to the family after this awful attack.
“At the time of the assault, this area of the shopping centre will have been busy so I believe someone will have seen what happened.
“I need them to contact my team of dedicated, specialist officers and staff.
“I know this attack will cause concern but at this stage we believe this is a targeted attack and there’s no risk to the wider public.”
Pictures show an air ambulance in the shopping centre's car park, with two police cars parked outside the complex.
Police said the attackers are believed to be black or Asian, with one wearing blue ripped jeans, a white t-shirt, black trainers, a black puffer jacket and carrying a small bag.
The other man was described as wearing a blue tracksuit and white trainers.
A shopkeeper in Lakeside there "police were there in droves" and that a forensic tent was erected in the shopping centre.
He said that there was a significantly increased police presence compared to usual come Friday morning.
On social media, it has been claimed the incident took place in a Primark store.
"What an event full evening. Started of well. Popped to lakeside shopping Centre and primark. A sad incident had just occurred I heard in primark. My thoughts are with the poor lads family if it's true.. Police, Air ambulance and security everywhere....," started a Facebook user.
Anyone with information about the incident can ring 101, quoting incident number 750 of April 28, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
