Father and son have been identified as the victims of a fatal stabbing in South London on Monday. Terry McMillan, 58, was declared dead at the scene, and his 27-year-old son, Brendan McMillan, died in hospital later. A third man was injured but is likely to recover.
Police were alerted to a reports of a violent assault within a commercial building on Long Lane in Southwark around 1pm. Three men with stab injuries were found by officers. The suspect, a 31-year-old man, was also taken to hospital before being arrested on suspicion of murder. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command detectives are investigating. They have said that the attack is not being investigated as terrorism-related. There was also a crime scene at a hotel near where the suspect had gone following the attack, though police made it clear that he was not resident there.
The victims are thought to have been employed by Trademark Group, a property firm that does business in the area.
Chief Superintendent Emma Bond, who is responsible for policing in the district, stated: “Our sympathies are with the family and loved ones of the victims of this terrible incident. We are moving quickly to determine precisely what occurred. There will be an enhanced police presence in the coming days, and I would urge anyone with concerns to come and talk to our officers.”
Local MP Neil Coyle described the attack as “absolutely devastating” on the community and paid condolences to the victims. “Many people will be shaken,” he said, “but this is still a safe community.” He urged anyone with information to contact the police.
Residents described the attack in shock and dismay, with one stating, “It’s terrifying. I walk past there all the time. You just don’t expect something like this on a normal weekday.”
Southwark Council’s Natasha Ennin was also saddened, describing the attack as “horrifying” and paying sympathy to the victims’ friends and families.
While investigations continue, police are urging witnesses or anyone who may have information regarding the incident to come forward.
