Croydon stab victim named by police as Michael Peixoto

Michael Peixoto was fatally stabbed in Croydon, south London, on 19 December

A man who died in a "barbaric attack" in south London has been named by police as Michael Patrick Afonso Peixoto.

The 27-year-old died after he was stabbed by a group of men in the Thornton Heath area of Croydon on 19 December, Metropolitan Police said.

The suspects drove off in the car Mr Peixoto had been travelling in, a grey Vauxhall, which has not been found.

There have been no arrests and inquiries continue.

Mr Peixoto's car (pictured) was taken by the suspects and has not yet been recovered

Det Insp Martin Thorpe, from the Met, described the attack as "causing devastation to Michael's family and friends", and added that the theft of the car is not thought to be the motive behind the stabbing.

He said: "I am appealing to anyone who was in the area and saw the events unfold, and has yet to speak to police, to come forward.

"Also, if anyone can assist us in locating Michael's vehicle or identifying those responsible for this barbaric attack, then I would urge you to get in touch."

A post-mortem examination confirmed cause of death as a stab wound.

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