Family pay tribute to ‘legend’ stabbed to death in Poplar

The family of a man who was stabbed to death on Friday have described him as “kind, caring and loving” after hundreds of people flocked to the scene to leave flowers and tributes.

A murder investigation was launched after Liam Hamilton, better known as Leo, was stabbed to death at the junction of Poplar High Street and Simpson’s Road, Poplar, on Friday night.

Speaking at the family home in Plimsoll Close, where he had lived, the 32-year-old’s brother Gerald said he was a “fun-loving guy who lived life to the full.”

His dad, also called Gerald, described the self-employed painter and decorator – who had spent his life in the area - as a “kind, caring and loving son” and a loving sibling to his four sisters and five brothers.

Girlfriend Abbie Unwin added: “No matter what had happened he would make you laugh. If he was your friend, he was your friend for life.”

Hundreds of people left flowers and tributes at the scene over the weekend in an outpouring of emotion for the football and boxing enthusiast, who had recently passed his driving test.

Nearby flower shops sold out within hours on Saturday as well-wishers flocked to pay their respects, leaving Liverpool football shirts and Ireland scarves.

Younger sister Caroline said: “He was just an amazing, amazing person, and everyone’s friend. His smile was so cheeky and gorgeous; he lit up a room.”

Police were called to the scene at around 10pm on Friday. Mr Hamilton was taken to the Royal London Hospital where he was pronounced dead at around 11.40pm.

Four men were arrested on suspicion of murder during the weekend.

Two, aged 35 and 36, were arrested on Friday, before a 27-year-old man was arrested on Saturday and a 29-year-old man was arrested on Sunday morning.

Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to call them on 0208 345 3775, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.