Teen fatally shot after Leyton event as police renew appeal

Alex Ajanaku, who was 18 years old, was fatally shot on the Beaumont Estate in Leyton on the morning of September 1 in 2021.

Police launched a murder investigation after being called at around 1.25am that day to reports Alex had been shot after an unlicensed music event on the estate.

The force have today (February 1) renewed an appeal for witnesses having already made four arrests.

Alex's mother said his death has "completely devastated" her life.

"I loved him so much and miss him every day," she added.

“I want to appeal to anyone who has any information about what happened or who is responsible for Alex’s death to come forward and talk to police,” she added.

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The black Kia Sportage that police believe was used in the shooting (Image: Met Police)

A reward of up to £20,000 continues to be offered by the Metropolitan Police for information leading to the identification, arrest and prosecution of the person responsible.

After the music event finished, a small group remained and were sat on a bench when the shots were fired, police said.

The vehicle that police believe was used in the shooting was a black Kia Sportage.

It had been stolen from Chingford just before midnight on August 16 in 2021.

On September 3 that year, it was found abandoned and with fire damage in Walthamstow.

Detective Sergeant Fenton Davis said: “We believe that Alex was at a music event on the estate the previous evening and a large number of people would have been there.

"Did you see anything that could help his trace his murderer?

"Any piece of information could prove vital in providing Alex’s family with the answers they need.

“Please do the right things and call us," he added.

Anyone with information should call the incident room directly on 020 8345 3775 or via 101 or tweet @MetCC.

To remain anonymous, call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.