Dad 'stabbed to death' while stuck on mobility scooter so he couldn't run away
Jade Anthony Barnett, a father of one, was allegedly stabbed after a fight broke out in the street near his home at around 3.40pm on Wednesday.
A disabled man was stabbed to death in East London as he tried to get away on his mobility scooter, a witness has claimed.
Jade Anthony Barnett, 38, was killed in Clapton on Wednesday, prompting a flood of tributes from family and loved ones.
He was allegedly stabbed after a fight broke out in the street near his home at around 3.40pm.
Andrew, a 66-year-old local pensioner, said an altercation began when a youth on a bicycle "bumped into" Jade.
"He was on his scooter and got bumped into by a boy on a bike who he started arguing with," Andrew told The Sun, claiming that the boy "then brought out a machete and stabbed him on his 'good' leg".
A witness who asked not to be named claimed Jade "tried to get away", telling The Telegraph: "He was my friend. He used a wheelchair because of his amputated leg", adding: "He was stabbed here. He tried to get away but could not because he had his wheelchair."
Jade's heartbroken Joyce mum said her son was "loved by everyone" in the area. "He was a joy, he loved life. He wouldn’t hurt a fly and would never get involved in a fight," she added.
"How anyone could attack him in a wheelchair I don’t know. We want answers."
A photo from the scene showed a black and grey electric wheelchair behind the police cordon.
Joyce said Jade has a daughter and had bravely "bounced back" after losing a leg as teenager in a motorbike accident in 2007.
Two men, aged 21 and 28, have been arrested on suspicion of murder, The Metropolitan Police said. They remain in custody at an East London police station, the force said.
Scotland Yard has not confirmed whether a machete was involved in the incident.
A spokesperson for Scotland Yard said: "Police were called at about 15:38hrs on Wednesday, 28 August, to reports of a fight in Rushmore Road, E5.
"Officers, the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance attended, and found a man – aged in his 30s – suffering from stab would injuries.
"Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, sadly he was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been notified and are being supported by specialist officers.
Police said enquiries are ongoing "to establish the full facts of what has happened".
Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, responsible for policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: "Our investigation is still in the early stages and my detectives are working hard to establish the circumstances of what has happened this afternoon.
"If anyone has any information about this tragic incident I urge them to come forwards and speak to us, or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously with any information.
"A number of streets have been cordoned off as our investigation continues at pace and I am grateful for the patience of the local residents of Clapton.
"Our thoughts are with the family of the victim at this difficult time.
"The public can expect to see continued and significant police activity in the local area as we continue with our rigorous investigation."
The force has asked anyone with information to call them on 101 or message @MetCC on X quoting CAD 4793/28AUG.
The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.
