Homicide detectives investigating the fatal stabbing of a man in Battersea have named the victim as Tai Folkes, 25, from Lambeth, as they widen their appeal for witnesses across several streets in the area.
Folkes was found with serious knife wounds following a confrontation between a group of men on Thessaly Road on the evening of Monday, 2 March. Emergency services were called just after 6pm and he was taken to hospital in a critical condition, but was pronounced dead despite efforts by medical staff.
His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist family liaison officers.
Two men — aged 28 and 38 — who were arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder have since been released on police bail as the investigation continues. The case is now being handled by detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Major Investigation Team.
Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie, leading the inquiry, has issued a detailed appeal for anyone who was in the area during a specific 30-minute window. Officers are particularly keen to hear from people who were on Thessaly Road, near the Savona Estate and Costcutter shop on SW8, between 5:45pm and 6:15pm, as well as on Battersea Park Road and Stewart’s Road between 6:10pm and 6:20pm.
DCI Howie said investigators wanted to know whether anyone saw a group of males talking, fighting, or anyone running away from those locations around 6:15pm. Drivers, cyclists and delivery workers in the area at the time are being asked to check dash-cam or helmet-cam footage, with officers stating that even minor details could prove significant to the investigation.
Anyone with information can contact the Metropolitan Police on 101, quoting reference CAD6165/2MAR, submit information via the Major Investigation Public Portal, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
