Fatal stabbing and Vigil in Brixton Market
Tragic, senseless murder shocks Brixton shopkeepers and residents.
(19th January, 2008. Report by editor. © urban75)

According to news reports, this tragic pre-meditated murder was over a stolen 20p orange.

Khalil Nasseri, 24, had been visiting the grocers owned by his cousin Asad when he was stabbed to death by a gang of men, one of whom had tried to steal the orange two days earlier.

The man was caught taking the fruit on Thursday and told to leave, but vowed revenge. On Saturday evening it is believed he returned with four friends.

Mr Nasseri, who had nothing to do with the initial dispute, had been outside the shop, helping two others clear up, when all three were set upon at MS Nasseri Quality Fruit and Vegetables in Electric Avenue, Brixton.

Asad Nasseri said: "On Thursday a man had come into the shop and tried to walk out without paying for an orange. There was an argument and the guy left, saying 'I'll be back'. "

The owner of a neighbouring shop said the man returned to the greengrocers later that evening with seven or eight others but found it closed.

Mr Nasseri said the man and four others returned at about 7.30pm on Saturday. "They stabbed Khalil from behind and attacked the other two with a hammer and knives," he added. "Khalil... had nothing to do with it. "

Khalil had studied medicine in Afghanistan and hoped to return to become a doctor like his father, Mr Nasseri said: "He was so intelligent and talented. "

Police said the stabbing involved a black gang and Asian victims. Witnesses should call the incident room at Sutton on 020 8721 4155.
Evening Standard



A steady stream of people were stopping in front of the flowers, reading the notices and quietly giving their respects.


The notice reads:

To the public and communities in Brixton

This is to inform you that a vigil will be held here (corner of Atlantic Road and Electric Avenue) on Saturday the 19th of January between 6pm - 6:30pm at this place in rememberance of Khalil Nasseri, who was brutally murdered here on 12th January 2008. The vigil will be a mark of respect for the soul of a young man who was loved by all members of Brixton Community and the public at large.

Khalil was about to get married in this coming February but sadly it was not to be, he will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

The vigil will also bring all the communities in Brixton together and to show their solidarity for the victims of this terrible crime.

Elias And Stewart
Members of Trading Community of Brixton




Note taped on to the shutters of the closed store.


Detail.


Police incident signs.







VIGIL, SATURDAY 19TH JANUARY 2008
A big, mixed crowd turned out to pay their respects to Khalil Nasseri, exactly a week after his brutal murder.

Family members, customers, officials and friends gave short talks emphasising community, racial harmony and the positive aspects of Brixton. The crowd then took short walk around the market where he worked.

It was very moving and very, very sad, but the family must have found some comfort in the size of the crowd who showed up.











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