A PUBLIC meeting following the death of a 25-year-old man in Dollis Hill attracted more than 100 concerned neighbours.

People packed into Comber Close Community Hall on Friday evening to hear police speak about the incident, which took place on Saturday, May 19.

Local man Luke Fitzpatrick is believed to have died as a result of a stab wound after an altercation near the Ox and Gate Pub, at around 11.30pm.

His father Bernard, 56, is recovering after he physically tried to protect his son from the attack. 

Detective superintendent Steve Kershaw was one of the officers who hosted the meeting. 

Representatives from the MPS murder squad were also present.

DS Kershaw said: "The purpose of the meeting was to provide some reassurance around what we are doing as far as the investigation was concerned and the to listen to the community's concerns. The most important thing was to urge people to be calm."

Some officers also visited the scene of the crime to hold a street briefing with Luke's friends and family members, where they are holding a peaceful vigil.

DS Kershaw added "I also acknowledged the dignity by which the family and friends of Luke have conducted themselves. There is always a danger in situations like this that people will try and take the law into their own hands. They have dealt with everything very sensibly."

The main messages given out at the meeting was for the community to stay calm, for people to trust the police to do their job, and for anyone with information to contact police.

The meeting started at 7.30pm and finished after 9.30pm, with lots of people asking questions and sharing their thoughts.

A 16-year-old boy of NW7 was charged with murder, attempted murder, GBH and violent disorder in connection with the enquiry. He appeared at Brent Magistrates Court on Saturday and did not enter a plea. 

He then appeared at The Old Bailey on Tuesday and was remanded in custody to appear at Brent Youth Court today.

Three men, two aged 17 and one aged 31 were arrested on May 19 in connection with the inquiry and taken to separate London police stations. They were later bailed to return pending further inquiries.

On May 21 a man aged 23 was arrested at an address in Wembley. He has since been bailed until a date in June.

On May 22 a boy aged 16 was arrested. He has since been bailed until a date in June. 

-  Detectives are still appealing for information. Any witnesses or anyone with information can call the incident room on 020 8358 0400. To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.