RESIDENTS are fearful after a 26-year-old-man was shot dead in a North Acton neighbourhood last night (Tuesday, September 18).

Police have now launched a murder investigation following the killing, which took place in Brassie Avenue, a small residential street close to the A40, at around 10.30pm.

Sylvia Murphy, 79, who lives on Brassie Avenue, said: "I heard the gun go off and I looked out the window and saw a dark car speeding off.

"It seemed like there were lots of shots fired and it sounded just like a tommy gun going off."

Liviu Grecu, another Brassie Avenue resident, said: "I heard three or four shots and I looked out onto the road and saw a BMW.

Another Brassie Avenue resident, who did not want to be named, said: "I don't go out at night anymore on my own, there are too many young gangs in the evening that hang about on this corner."

Passerby, Derek, who refused to give his surname, said: "I have been living in this area for six months and this is the second shooting. I thought this was a safe area. For now, I'm going to stay, but it's getting dangerous."

The victim was taken to Charing Cross Hospital, in Fulham Place Road, Hammersmith, where he later died.

Anyone with information can call police on 0208 733 4704.