A FUNDRAISING appeal for a young father "executed" by a gunman at point black rage has been created in the hopes of generating the funds to give him a final send-off.
Akeem Moore, a father-of-three, was shot in the head in Eastney Road, Croydon, at 11.25pm on Friday (Oct 7) while he stood outside a friend’s home.
The 22-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene.
A family friend told The Evening Standard: “His family are devastated. His mother has lost her amazing son and we are all just in complete shock.
“We can’t believe this has happened. His family just want to know why? If anyone knows a reason why this would happen they must come forward. We must get justice.”
His mother Lilian Hinchley-Nelson wrote on Facebook: “Today I mourn the death of my eldest son. May God give myself and my family the strength and comfort at this time.
“I love you my baby prince Akeem, may your soul rest in sweet perfect peace. We will miss you dearly especially your three children.”
Moore, who attended John Ruskin College and had aspirations of becoming a musician, performing under the moniker 'Tuggzy', has been described by those who knew him as a “bubbly person who was always laughing.”
The current fundraising campaign has set itself a target of £5000 to cover the costs of a headstone and the funeral.
Less that 24 hours since going live nearly 30 per cent of the total figure has been generated.
More can be found on the appeal here https://www.gofundme.com/2tfzkwc
The Met police have launched a murder investigation and the Homicide and Major Crime Command are appealing for witnesses. There have been no arrests.
Detective Chief Inspector Lee Watling, who is leading the investigation, said: “I need to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Eastney Road area late on Friday night.
“I would urge any witnesses, or anyone with information that may assist the investigation, to call police and tell us what they saw or what they know.”
Call the incident room on 020 8721 4205 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111