A MURDER investigation has been launched after a young man, possibly in his teens, was stabbed to death in the food court at Lakeside shopping centre in Thurrock this afternoon (28 April).

Police were called to reports of a man being injured in an assault inside the West Thurrock shopping centre shortly before 4.30pm.

Emergency services, including the air ambulance, attended but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Shoppers reported desperate attempts by staff and medics in the centre attempting CPR on the victim, who it is believed was attacked by two men who are described as being black or Asian.

One was wearing blue ripped jeans, a white t-shirt, black trainers and a black puffer jacket, and carrying a small bag, and the other described as wearing a blue tracksuit and white trainers.

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Scott Egerton, from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: "I want to extend my condolences to the family after this awful attack.

"At the time of the assault, this area of the shopping centre will have been busy so I believe someone will have seen what happened.

"I need them to contact my team of dedicated, specialist officers and staff.

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"I know this attack will cause concern but at this stage we believe this is a targeted attack and there's no risk to the wider public.

"If you saw anything or have any video footage, you can submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk where you can use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am and 11pm. Please quote incident 750 of 28 April.

"You can also call us on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."