A 19-year-old man has been arrested 

DETECTIVES said tonight (Thursday) they have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man believed to have been stabbed in a Camden Town park.

They launched an appeal for information from the public after Mark Caroll, 55, was fatally attacked in St Martin’s Gardens yesterday (Wednesday) afternoon. He was treated by paramedics but died later in hospital.

Officers said it was at first suspected that Mr Carroll had collapsed from a cardiac arrest but after further investigations by medical professionals he was found to have sustained a stab injury to his body.

Police said witnesses had seen a man making slashing motions towards the victim and his friend.

A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody, while a knife has been sent for forensic analysis.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Rawlinson said: “We have spoken to several people as part of our enquiries, however we believe there may be others who witnessed this incident, or the moments leading up to it, and I would ask them to come forward.

“This attack happened in a park, and I expect that a number of people would have been in the area. Were you in the vicinity of St Martin’s Gardens between 1pm and 2pm? Did you see anything? Were you approached by a man whose behaviour caused you concern?

“We are also continuing to review CCTV and would also ask anyone who has a video doorbell, or who was driving in the area with a dash cam, to please check their footage.

“It is vital that we establish what happened and recover all possible evidence.”

Superintendent Annmarie Cowley, who is responsible for policing in Camden, said: “First and foremost our thoughts are with Mark’s family and friends who have suffered an unimaginable loss.

“We know that this attack will also be of significant concern within the wider community, especially as it happened in such a public place.

“We are continuing to liaise with our partners, and you will see additional officers in the area over the coming days while we continue to investigate this tragic crime.

“I would ask that you speak with them if you have any information. It is only by working together that we can reduce violent crime, and we really need your help with this investigation.”

A crime scene remains in place.

Any witnesses are asked to call 101 or post @MetCC quoting reference CAD 3650/10Apr.

To remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555.