First picture of ‘big-hearted’ young man killed in Brixton drive-by shooting

A man killed in a drive-by shooting in Brixton, south London, has been described as ‘innocent’ and ‘big-hearted’ following his death.

Keanu Taylor, 25, was rushed to hospital following the attack on Saturday morning but later died from his injuries.

Three others, including a pensioner, suffered injuries deemed ‘not life‑threatening or life‑changing’ in the attack.

The gunman is understood to have opened fire while driving past a barbecue attended by around 50 people.

One witness told Metro the gunman fired indiscriminately, ‘not caring who he hit.’

A memorial has been set up at the crime scene, featuring flowers and a picture of Keanu left by his father. 

A friend said: ‘He was a big-hearted guy who loved his family. He was innocent. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time.’

Another said: ‘It’s always the innocent who suffer. He wasn’t in a gang or anything like that. This type of thing is a danger to us in the community.’

Police have dispatched extra patrols as the search for the shooter continues. No arrests have been made. 

Officers have scoured the area for bullet casings, carried out forensic analysis, and collected CCTV images. 

Dozens of bouquets have been left at the scene as family and friends congregate to remember Keanu. 

His shrine is just moments from that of another young man killed in the area, Keelen Wong. The 22-year-old was fatally stabbed just yards from the scene of the latest shooting on a stretch of south London road, now dubbed ‘murder mile’ by locals. 

A Met Police statement on the shooting said: ‘Police were called at 01.14 am on Saturday, 2 May, following reports that multiple shots had been fired on Coldharbour Lane, Brixton.

‘Officers, including specialist crime officers, were on scene within four minutes and provided emergency first aid alongside the London Ambulance Service.

‘One man was taken to hospital but has since sadly died. He can be named as 25-year-old Keanu Taylor. His next of kin continue to be supported by specialist officers.’

Detective Chief Inspector Allam Bhangoo, who is leading the investigation, said: ‘As we work quickly to identify those responsible, our thoughts are with Keanu’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

‘This was a shocking act of violence which has had a devastating impact on those involved and the local community. I want to reassure residents that we are working urgently to identify and apprehend those responsible.

‘It is vital that anyone who saw what happened, or has any information or footage, comes forward. Even the smallest detail could prove crucial to our investigation.

‘Local residents will continue to see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days. If you have any concerns, please speak to officers.’

Anyone with information or footage that could assist police is asked to call 101. The anonymous Crimestoppers helpline can be reached on 0800 555 111.

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