Notting Hill Carnival: Police seek man over rapper Takayo Nembhard stabbing

Detectives investigating the murder of a 21-year-old rapper at Notting Hill Carnival in August say they "urgently" need to trace a man.

Takayo Nembhard, also known by his rap name TKorStretch, was at the west London street party with his sister and friends when he was stabbed.

The drill rapper and expectant father had travelled from Bristol to enjoy the annual event.

His partner, O’shian Edwards, has since given birth to their son.

Police have already made four arrests but need to identify another male.

Officers have now appealed for anyone with footage or images from the carnival to check whether they recognise the man in their newly-released image.

Mr Nembhard was stabbed under the Westway flyover in Ladbroke Grove on Monday August 29.

He was taken to a west London hospital where, despite the best efforts of medical staff, he was pronounced dead.

A post-mortem examination held at Westminster Mortuary on September 1 gave cause of death as a stab wound to the right groin femoral artery.

His family said: “Takayo’s death has left a painful ache for all who loved him and still love him.

“He was so looking forward to being a dad and would have made a fabulous one as he came from a strong family unit.

“His son was born on November 9 and although this should have been a happy occasion, it was bittersweet.

“Our family, which includes his girlfriend, continues to struggle with coping without him on a daily basis.

“Our family beg the public to provide any info they may have, be that videos or photos that were taken on August 29 in the Ladbroke Grove area.

“Please help us to bring Takayo’s killers to justice and therefore some comfort to us knowing he didn’t die in vain.”

Det Insp Laura Semple, Specialist Crime, said: “We are making good progress with our investigation into Takayo’s tragic death which has naturally left his family devastated.

“However, we really need the public’s help to tell us who this person is in the CCTV image we have issued today and anyone with information – no matter how small - about the murder to come forward.

“If you can help please get in touch immediately.”

In October, a 23-year-old man, an 18-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy were arrested in Bristol on suspicion of murder.

A 20-year-old woman was also arrested in Islington on suspicion of assisting an offender.

A dedicated page has been set up where witnesses can upload photos and videos of the incident. It is simple to use and can be accessed here - Public Portal (mipp.police.uk)

Information can also be provided by calling the incident room directly on 020 7175 2206 to speak to an officer, by calling 101 or by tweeting @MetCC quoting 7478/29AUG.

Anyone wishing to remain 100 per cent anonymous can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org.