Man shot dead in 'senseless act of violence' as people gathered for west London memorial service

A murder investigation has been launched after a 40-year-old man was shot dead as people gathered for a memorial service in west London, police said.

Officers were called just before 7.50pm on Friday after members of the public reported hearing multiple shots fired in East Acton, the Metropolitan Police said.

The man was treated by London Ambulance Service, but died at the scene "despite the best efforts of medical staff", the force said.

Around 40 to 50 people, including children, were gathered for a memorial service, according to police.

The incident happened at the junction of Braybrook Street and Erconwald Street.

Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie said: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of a man whose life was taken in a senseless act of violence.

"We understand a large number of people had gathered for a memorial service, and what should have been a time to come together in remembrance has instead left a family devastated.

"We believe between 40 and 50 people, including children, were present when this incident occurred. Someone knows what happened and we need them to come forward."

No arrests have been made, police added. A police cordon remains in place in Braybrook Street.

Read more from Sky News:
England cricketer charged by regulator
Tesco weighs Majestic Wine takeover bid

DCI Howie added: "If you were around Erconwald Street, Braybrook Street, the surrounding roads or Wormwood Scrubs playground between 6pm and 8pm, please think carefully about what you saw.

"Did you see anyone carrying or concealing weapons, people on bicycles acting suspiciously, or vehicles being driven at speed?

"We also want to hear from anyone with photographs, video, dashcam, doorbell or mobile phone footage or who has seen anything relevant on social media.

"However insignificant it may seem, the smallest piece of information could prove crucial in helping us establish what happened and identify those responsible."

The victim's family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers, the Met said.

(c) Sky News 2026: Man shot dead in 'senseless act of violence' as people gathered for west London memorial servic