Boxing Day killing: Man sought in connection with fatal stabbing

Michael John Murphy, pictured, was known to the man police are searching for

An image has been released by police of a man being sought in connection with a fatal stabbing on Boxing Day.

A 49-year-old man, Michael John Murphy, was killed in the street in Shoreditch, east London, after an argument broke out.

He was stabbed in Cranwood Street at about 03:10 GMT, the Metropolitan Police said.

The force said it had been working tirelessly to find suspect Jurejs Vankovs, 38, but had yet to locate him.

Four people previously arrested on suspicion of murder have been released with no further action, the Met said.

Jurejs Vankovs is being sought by police

The police force said moments before the attack a group of up to 10 people were involved in an argument.

Det Ch Insp Kelly Allen said: "From what we understand, Vankovs and Michael were known to each other and both lived a transient lifestyle in the local area.

"I would ask people in the Shoreditch and wider Hackney area to keep a lookout for him. If you see Vankovs, please do not approach him but call 999 immediately."

• Four arrested in fatal stabbing murder inquiry

Formal identification is yet to take place but Mr Murphy's next of kin have been informed and his family is being supported by specially trained officers.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail]