Family pay tribute to ‘kind, generous and hard-working’ man killed in market stabbing

A family has paid tribute to a much-loved 77-year-old man who was stabbed to death in a busy market on Sunday.

Hilkiah McLeggan, known to his family and friends as Mac or LLoyde, died following the incident in East Street Market, Walworth, at around 10.40am.

In a statement released today, Mr McLeggan’s family said: “Hilkiah McLeggan was a warm, kind and generous man who would do anything for his friends and family. 

“He was a hard-working man who worked past his retirement because he knew he could offer more of himself and enjoyed being among his colleagues, who were also his friends.

“He was a great support to so many and would offer his help without hesitation to support their needs. His family and friends are devastated and are struggling to make sense of this terrible event.”

Cops were called to reports of several people being seriously injured at the market. At the scene two other men were found suffering from serious stab injuries. They were taken to hospital, where they remain. One of them is in a critical condition.

Chief Superintendent Seb Adjei-Addoh, lead for policing in Southwark, previously praised traders who bravely apprehended the knifeman before police arrived at the scene.

Mr McLeggan’s family said: “We would like to thank all the wonderful people at East Street Market who on Remembrance Sunday showed such bravery in preventing any more lives and hearts being broken.

“Heartfelt gratitude is expressed to those that stopped to come to his aid in an attempt to save him and those that prayed for him in his final moments. The family also thank the police who are supporting them while they try to process their grief and ask for privacy while they come to terms with such a tragic, senseless and devastating loss.”

Following the incident, a special memorial has been mounted in East Street in memory of McLeggan, who frequented the market for many decades.

The family said: “Our best wishes are extended to the other victims and their family. We hope they have a positive outcome and wish them well on their recovery.”

• Musse Ali, 66, of no fixed address, has been charged with one count of murder and two counts of attempted murder. He appeared at Croydon Magistrates Court on Tuesday, where he was remanded in custody. He will next appear at the Old Bailey on December 10, where he will enter a plea.

Pictured top: Hilkiah McLeggan, who was stabbed to death in East Street Market on Sunday (Picture: The Met)