Mourners will hold a ‘peace vigil’ in Peckham Rye Park as the community grieves the fatal stabbing of Kalabe Legesse.
Kalabe, 29, was “sitting in the park minding, his own business” near the cafe when he was stabbed in the heart on the evening of Friday, December 30.
The vigil will take place at the cafe on Strakers Road at 8.30pm on Friday, January 6 – exactly a week on from Kalabe’s death and in the same place where his life was taken.
St Antony and St Silas Church, whose parish includes Peckham Rye Park, are organising the event.
Ish Lennox, from the church, said: “There needs to be a response from the community and to mourn this man who lost his life and bring people together to grieve.
“The park is a fantastic and safe space. We need to own this space, to keep it ours. So it’s very sad that there’s been this terrible, violent and senseless act.”
Some candles will be provided but people are welcome to bring their own candles and flowers if they wish. Flowers are already gathering at the spot where Kalabe was killed.
The church has stressed that all are welcome and encouraged to mourn in whatever way they are most comfortable.
“We are giving a very clear message to whoever took this man’s life that it’s not acceptable and that is not how our park works. We’re not going to tolerate violence in this peaceful place,” said Ish.
Police have condemned the “brutal and senseless attack” and are appealing for witnesses and information.
They are currently searching for two suspects who fled the scene on pedal bikes towards Peckham Rye after the incident.
Detective Chief Inspector Katherine Goodwin, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “Kalabe’s family and friends have been left devastated by his death, which occurred after a brutal and senseless attack when he was simply sitting in the park, minding his own business.
“We have been working tirelessly to identify those responsible and are keen to hear from anyone who was in or around the park, particularly in the area near the café and playground, at about 8pm.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information about what happened, is asked to call 101 with referencing 6165/30DEC. Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.