A man was shot dead in a quiet children's playground in Mitcham yesterday afternoon (Tuesday).

Police have launched a murder inquiry following the shooting which occurred in the Lewis Road park. Officers and the London Ambulance Service were called by a member of the public shortly before 4.30pm who reported the incident. They found the black man, who has yet to be identified, suffering from gun shot wounds lying in the park. He was pronounced dead at the scene by an air ambulance doctor 20 minutes later. A post-mortem has yet to be arranged.

The park and immediate area has been cordoned off and police were examining the area into the early hours of this morning.

Officers from the Serious Crime Group who are investigating the killing are keeping an open mind about the motive at the moment.

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident in the park in Lewis Road, Mitcham, or has any information to contact police at Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

July 10, 2002 12:00