Leytonstone man who tried to save friend dies in cocktail bar brawl

A 27-year-old man has died after attempting to protect his friend in a high street fight in Leytonstone.

Police were called to reports of a fight in Church Lane at around 11pm on October 16.

Video footage at the scene on shows Lumturi Zeqja lying in the garden of a cocktail bar receiving CPR by ambulance crew. His friends are heard pleading with him “to keep breathing” and not to die.

Sadly, Zeqia did not survive and died at the scene of the incident, opposite Leytonstone Station. A post-mortem examination into the cause of Zeqja’s death will be held.

Another man, believed to be in his 20s, was administered with first aid. He was taken to hospital but his condition is not thought to be life-threatening.

Local residents in the east London community say they do not feel safe. A 43-year-old man, who wanted to remain anonymous, said he is “not surprised at all” by the fatal incident.

The local store worker told ITV News: “It’s really bad because we are working here, especially at night time. One of my colleagues, he is living (nearby), so he feels scared.

“He asked police to check all CCTV cameras (and asked) are they working good because he is finishing here and going home late so he don’t feel safe.”

Detective Inspector Adam Callaghan said: “Our investigation is moving at pace and we are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry. Our priority is to find the person responsible and get justice for the victim and his family.”

Chief Superintendent Simon Crick, lead for policing in Waltham Forest and Newham, said: “My thoughts and sympathies are with Mr Lumturi’s family and friends for their tragic loss.

“I can understand that this incident will have caused concern and shock in the local community and would like to reassure residents that we will have local officers patrolling in the area. Please speak to these officers; they will help allay any concerns you may have.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police via 101 quoting reference CAD 7352/16Oct. To remain anonymous please contact Crimestoppers.