THE victim of the fatal stabbing in Laindon has been named locally as James Gibbons.

Mr Gibbons, a father in his 30s, known as Gibbo to friends and family, was murdered on Sunday evening in Iris Mews.

Five teenagers, with some as young as 13, have been arrested in relation to the murder, with three now bailed.

The victim died at the scene, despite the efforts of paramedics.

A tribute on social media reads: "Another life lost, kids growing up with no dad, partner with no husband, mum with no son. No good comes out of knife crime. RIP James Gibbons, had some good times mate."

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Four teenagers were arrested on the night, with another picked up on Monday.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Jennings, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “Our enquiries have led us to believe the victim was going to the aid of another man and, as a result, he lost his life during an altercation which ensued with a group of young people not directly known to him.

“It is a tragic loss of life and we are continuing to appeal for the public’s help.

“We are really keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time and may have seen or heard anything happen in Iris Mews shortly before 9.30pm on Sunday.

“We are also keen to hear from anyone who has seen any discarded weapons in the area.

“If anyone knows anything about this murder and has not yet come forward to speak to us, please do. A family has been broken apart, and we need to get to the bottom of what happened.”