A police manhunt was continuing on Monday after a young man described by friends as the “nicest guy ever” was shot dead in south-east London.
Shaquille Graham, 30, collapsed from a single gunshot injury on Catford Broadway, Lewisham at around 4.30am on Sunday.
Mobile phone footage showed passers-by performing chest compressions on Mr Graham before paramedics and police could arrive.
But he died at the scene opposite Lewisham Town Hall and Grade II listed Broadway Theatre.
The Metropolitan Police said no arrests have yet been made in connection with the incident.
Mr Graham’s best friend said he was the “nicest guy ever” and had been killed in a case of mistaken identity.
Luke Wilson, 31, who trains young boxers to help steer them away from crime, said they had attended a house music event at Silks, a social club, when the victim stepped outside with a girl and was gunned down.
He said the father-of-four, who had worked in construction, was the “best friend I had known”, adding: “He lived for his family and was a great dad.
“I had been at the event with him, in fact I persuaded him to go because he loved house music.
“There was no problem during the evening at all.
“I had left when he was attacked and I regret I did not say goodbye properly because we see each other all the time anyway.
“Then I got the call that he was shot by someone in a car or on a bike.
“I tell you there is no way he deserved it. He was not involved in any trouble at all or gangs or anything like that. He was a good soul. He was a bit fly and lots of fun but did not have a bad bone in him.”
Mr Wilson added: “He came from another area of London but he was loved around here.
“I have lost my best friend. I’m devastated. This is so depressing for future generations. If people like Shaq are getting killed there’s no hope. Some people live on the edge and become dangerously involved in gangs etc
“My friend was not one of those. He was no drug dealer. He was a figure of light someone people were drawn to.”
Detectives are in the process of informing Mr Graham’s next of kin. A significant cordon remains in place at the scene.
Detective Superintendent Brian Hobbs said: “We are making good progress with our investigation and a number of leads are being followed up.
“Although, the shooting happened in the middle of the night, it happened on a busy road and there will have been witnesses who may have seen or heard something.
“I would urge anyone with any information, who hasn’t already contacted police, to contact us urgently.
“We are determined to secure justice for Shaquille’s grieving family and friends.”
Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry said: “My sympathies and thoughts are with the family and loved ones of this young man who has lost his life in very tragic circumstances.
“I know such a shocking incident will cause great concern in the community and want to reassure residents that we have assigned significant resources to this investigation.
“We also have officers patrolling the local area and I would urge those with concerns to talk to them. They are there to support you.”
