A tragic incident unfolded in south-east London on the evening of Saturday, August 2, 2025, as a young Nigerian man, 26-year-old Ayowale Aledejana, was brutally stabbed to death inside a residential home.
According to the Metropolitan Police, officers were called to a property on Monson Road, New Cross, at approximately 7:26 p.m. following reports of a stabbing.
Upon arrival, emergency responders—including London Ambulance Service personnel and medics from the London Air Ambulance—discovered Mr. Aledejana suffering from multiple stab wounds. Despite their best efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mr. Aledejana, who hailed from South Norwood in the borough of Croydon, has been identified by police, and his next of kin have been informed. Specially trained officers are currently providing support to his grieving family during this devastating time.
The attack took place directly opposite the former Duke of Albany pub, a location famously featured in the 2004 British film Shaun of the Dead. A forensics tent has since been erected on the pavement outside the terraced house where the stabbing occurred. Floral tributes have also been laid by members of the community, paying their respects to the deceased.
In connection with the incident, police have arrested two individuals—a 23-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman—on suspicion of murder. Both remain in custody as investigations continue.
Leading the murder investigation is Detective Chief Inspector Lucie Card, who expressed condolences to the victim’s loved ones. “Our thoughts are with Ayowale’s family and friends at this very difficult time,” she said.
“We understand the concern this incident has caused within the community, and we are conducting a fast-paced and detailed investigation to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this tragic death.”
She further appealed to the public for assistance: “We urge anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any relevant information to come forward. Your information could be crucial in helping us understand what happened.”
Members of the public with any information are encouraged to contact the police by calling 101 and quoting reference number 6271/02AUG.