UPDATE: Murder victim was not intended target, say police (From Your Local Guardian)

Thornton Heath murder victim not intended target, say police

3:07pm Friday 1st July 2011 in Top Stories By Pete Truman

The 41-year-old gunned down in Thornton Heath this morning was not the intended target of the attack, police believe.

It is understood he was shot in his home by two masked men in the early hours of this morning.

Police have said the attack was not random but said the 41-year-old was not the intended victim.

A 50-year-old woman was also taken to hospital with minor injuries and has since been discharged.

Paramedics and the police were called to an address in Langdale Road at 2.43am.

They worked to save the shot man's life but he died at the scene.

Two men fled the scene of the crime in the direction of London Road. One is described as being 5ft 2, a light-skinned black man and the other as being about 5ft 9.

Both had their faces obscured.

DCI John Crossley, investigating, said: "Two men who were armed and had their faces covered entered the house and fired a number of shots.

"There were three people at the address at the time of the attack. A woman suffered minor injuries and thankfully has been discharged from hospital. A man, who we do not believe to be the intended target tragically died at the scene.

"There will be people who know what has happened and who is responsible for this dreadful attack and would appeal for them to contact the Incident Room or Crimestoppers.

"I appreciate that some people might be concerned about reporting gun crime, but we are willing to speak with them in confidence and to arrange protection measures during the criminal justice system."

Anyone with information is asked to call the Incident Room on 020 8733 4212; or if they wish to remain anonymous Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

There have been no arrests at this stage.

A post-mortem will be scheduled in due course.

Do you know more? Call the newsdesk on 0208 722 6351 or email kwhalley@london.newsquest.co.uk