THE family of a 22-year-old man who was stabbed in the heart have described the ‘living hell’ of watching him fight for his life.

Lee Collins, of Feltham, was stabbed following an altercation near Elmwood Avenue at around 5pm last Friday (March 2).

He was taken to a west London hospital where he has undergone extensive treatment and remains in a critical condition.

A statement released by his family said: “Lee is a kind, lovely boy, who is loved very much by his family and friends and well liked in the community. In these last few days, after he was stabbed, we have seen him undergo heart surgery and an operation to relieve the pressure on his brain. His injuries are life changing.

“Our healthy, fun loving boy is fighting for his life. All because of someone's senseless actions. No family should go through our living hell. Please help us catch those responsible."

The attack happened in a service road, off Clifton Avenue, close to the junction of Elmwood Avenue, where Mr Collins was discussing his newly purchased car with six friends.

A dark-coloured saloon style vehicle drove past them and a front-seat passenger spat at Mr Collins and his friends, sparking a short verbal disagreement. The car then parked up and the man, along with a rear-seat passenger, got out of the car and confronted Mr Collins.

The first man, who was in his early to mid 20s, black, of North African appearance, of slim build and over six feet tall, then stabbed Mr Collins in the chest.

Both suspects then returned to the parked car, which was driven off by a third man towards Feltham Town Centre.

The second suspect is described as light-skinned mix race in appearance, 5ft 8in tall and of a medium to stocky build. The driver was white, in his 30s, around 5ft 8in tall, of slim build with mousey brown hair.

Have you seen or heard anything which could help the police? Please post a comment on our Feltham Community website .

Police make arrest - see page 2

 

A 19-year-old man was arrested in Feltham two days after the attack and has been bailed until May.

Police are, however, renewing appeals for information about the attempted murder and detectives and safer neighbourhood officers will this evening (March 9) be in the vicinity of Elmwood Avenue, distributing leaflets and speaking to members of the community.

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Andy Manning said: “I would appeal for anyone who witnessed the altercation, or has information regarding the identities of the suspects, to come forward and assist us in our investigation.

“I am particularly interested to speak to any of the occupants of a car which was seen to have passed Mr Collins as they may hold crucial information."

Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room on 020 8358 0300 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Have you seen or heard anything which could help the police? Please post a comment on our Feltham Community website .