Police Believe Alex Kareem Shooting Was Mistaken Identity
'Loving and caring' 20-year-old was planning to go to university later this year
Alexander Kareem with his mother
Detectives investigating the murder of Alexander Kareem in Shepherd’s Bush earlier this month have confirmed they believe it is a case of mistaken identity.
The twenty-year-old’s family and friends said immediately after the shooting that Alex had no connection with violent crime or gangs.
A vast CCTV operation is ongoing according to the Met and detectives are continuing to appeal for information. An award of £10,000 was offered last week for information in connection with the killing on Askew Road at 12.40pm on Monday, 08 June.
The main lead remains the white Range Rover Evoque which was picture close to the scene at the time of the shooting and was found 25 minutes later burnt out on Ascott Avenue in Ealing.
Alexander’s family have released the following tribute to their son and brother, “Alex was a loving and caring boy who was loved by so many. He was so enthusiastic about what he did, he loved IT and computers. He loved to see his friends, like any other young boy.
“His life was tragically cut short by such a senseless act of violence which no one should ever have to endure. He will never have the ability to grow up and live the life we all can, he had plans to go to university in September.
“We are truly heartbroken at the loss. We want anyone who has any information to come forward. We were not there to help Alex in his last moments but we can help him now, as can you, the public. He was so loved and we will miss him for ever.”
The White Range Evoque pictured near murder scene. Picture: Met Police
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley from Specialist Crime is leading the investigation. He said: “Investigations continue into this awful murder. All lines of inquiry point to this being a tragic case of mistaken identity. Alexander did nothing wrong that night, he simply left a convenience store.
“The people who did this must be brought to justice, they ruthlessly shot down an innocent man in the street with no care of the consequences.
“We continue to urge anyone with information to come forward. These people do not deserve your protection, they set out to cause harm. Alexander’s family are heartbroken to have lost their son, brother and friend who has played no part in any violence.”
Chief Superintendent Helen Harper, Borough Commander for Central West, said: “We continue to have the friends and family of Alexander in our thoughts. We will do all we can to locate who is responsible for this act of violence.
“I understand the community will be shocked and anxious about this attack. We are in regular contact with community leaders and local authorities to provide reassurance. I encourage anyone who feels concerned or frightened to speak with officers who continue to patrol the area.
“Rest assured we are working round the clock to locate those involved. Violence of this nature will not be tolerated in our communities.
“In recent weeks we have seen incredible acts of community spirit, I hope that anyone with information will come forward to help us bring those responsible to justice.”
Any witnesses or anyone with any information should call 101 quoting CAD224/08June, or tweet @MetCC.
If you have information about this incident, or information about someone you suspect to be carrying a weapon and you do not want to speak to police, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website. It is 100 per cent anonymous. They never ask your name and cannot trace your call or IP address. They have put in place a £10,000 reward for information.
June 30, 2020