First picture of dad, 24, stabbed to death 'trying to fend off mugger'

A man stabbed to death in central London's Knightsbridge has been identified and pictured for the first time. Emergency services responded to reports about a stabbing in Seville Street, near Hyde Park, around 9.30pm on Wednesday where a 24-year-old man, found injured, died at the scene.

Bouquets of flowers, cards and a blue candle were laid at the scene, with the victim named in one of the tributes as Blue Stevens. One note among the tributes read: "We are all absolutely devastated without you. You took a piece of my heart with you." While other tributes said: "Forever in our hearts. Forever missed" and "May you rest in peace. Pray for the brokenhearted." The incident happened near luxury hotel The Park Tower Knightsbridge but did not involve any guests or staff, according to a Marriott spokesperson. They said in a statement: "We are extremely saddened by this incident that occurred on the street adjacent to our hotel. Our thoughts are with the victim's family at this difficult time.

"We can confirm that the incident did not involve any of our hotel guests or staff. As this is an active investigation, all inquiries should be directed to the Metropolitan Police."

The pavement surrounding the hotel and adjacent restaurant Nusr-Et - run by Turkish chef Nusret Gokce, aka "Salt Bae" - was closed off following the incident.

No arrests have been made so far and a shortened cordon remains in place. The man's next-of-kin are aware and are being supported by specialist officers.

A worker at a luxury hotel near the murder scene told the Daily Mail: "I was working there last night. My secretary told me a masked man tried to rob his watch. It was a couple. But the guy pulled out his hand and he took out his knife and stabbed him.

"The couple were walking along the pavement and he tried to fight back but the guy took the knife and stabbed him in the chest.

"The police chased the guy but I don't think they caught him. I saw a little bit of the CCTV. I saw the man lying out on the pavement, a woman was supporting him and crying. There was a lot of blood. He was wearing a white or cream coloured t-shirt. He was unconscious."

Superintendent Owen Renowden said: "Our thoughts are with the victim's loved ones following the shocking events that took place last night.

"Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command, supported by local officers, are working at pace to establish the circumstances of what happened.

"We are aware of reports that this incident was a robbery. Although this is an active line of inquiry, we are keeping an open mind about all possible motives and the exact circumstances are still to be determined.

"We understand the impact this incident will have on the local community and you will see extra officers in the area to help answer any questions or concerns."

People are urged to call police on 101 referencing CAD 8521/09JUL, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, with any information.