THE victim of a fatal stabbing in Laindon was "protecting a homeless man from a teenage gang".

Essex Police are continuing to investigate the killing of James Gibbons in Iris Mews, Laindon on Sunday at around 9.30pm.

The "amazing" dad of four tragically died from his injuries despite efforts from paramedics.

Earlier this week Essex Police stated that Mr Gibbons, also known as "Gibbo" had been coming to the aid of someone else when he was stabbed.

Now a family friend has said Mr Gibbons was trying to protect a homeless man he had previously given food to.

Speaking to The Sun, they said: "James was having a barbecue. It was his twins’ birthday a week or so ago.

"He had seen a man who was living on the streets earlier in the day.

"He decided to take him some food, which is so kind of him and shows what kind of guy he was.

"This group of teenagers were attacking the man on the street and when James saw him he bravely stepped in.

"He was then stabbed by the kids who had been attacking the other man. The family are devastated, James was incredible and their kids have lost their dad.”

Five teenagers aged between 13 and 16 were arrested on suspicion of murder, and three have been released on bail until May 25 and 28.

The area in which the killing happened has been likened to the American prison Alcatraz.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has footage of what led to it or has information on it should submit a report online at www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

You can also call 101 and cite incident 1292 of May 2.