SHOCKWAVES from the shooting of Anthony Otton - the second resident of a Fulham estate to be slain in a matter of weeks - reverberated across the closely-knit area this week.

Mr Otton, 28, was killed by a single bullet through his heart just before 7pm last Thursday, as he left Geranium House, in Fulham Court, where residents had been holding a wake for Darcy Bruce, who was gunned down outside Wandsworth Prison on May 1.

Detectives from the Met Police's Trident unit are investigating a possible link between the two shootings amid fears of an eruption of gangland-style violence in west London.

Last week's victim is believed to have recently been released from Wandsworth Prison after serving time for drugs offences.

Fearful residents who saw armed police and paramedics swarm on to the estate after reports of the shooting, spoke of their shock and sadness at a second murder in just over a month.

"I can't believe it, I know his family and I think this is scandalous," said one 69-year-old resident, who did not want to be named.

Another local who knew Mr Otton, but also declined to be named, said: "It's his family I feel sorry for, I mean his sister and mother were there when he was shot. I can't believe it's happened to him.

"He was a sweet guy, a bit of a ladies' man. I'll miss his smile."

Local police moved swiftly this week to allay fears of revenge attacks, saying shootings are very rare in Fulham and boosting patrols around Fulham Court.

Superintendent Keith Overstall, from Fulham Police Station, said: "This is obviously a tragic incident, but one which is a rarity in the borough. Local Safer Neighbourhoods Officers have increased their patrols and continue to work closely with the community in Fulham Court."

Born on July 28, 1980, Mr Otton is understood to have attended St Thomas More School, in Chelsea, and lived with his mother and three sisters in Fulham Court.

Comments on a Facebook page set up in his memory, remembered him as a generous and friendly person who once gave his PlayStation console away to a local child.

Another friend paid tribute to Mr Otton, saying: "He was a good brother to his sisters, he could always look out for them.

"He was a good friend and I'm going to miss seeing him in and around Fulham. I would always see him telling the kids on the estate to keep out of trouble and to make something of themselves.''

A 24-year-old man was arrested in connection with the June 4 shooting and released on bail pending further inquiries.

Three other men aged 19, 22 and 26 were arrested in May on suspicion of murdering Bruce and have been released on bail.

Anyone with information can call the incident room at Barnes on 0208 247 7821 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.