Disabled man stabbed to death after ‘car rammed mobility scooter’

A disabled man was stabbed to death in east London after a car rammed his mobility scooter, a witness has claimed.

Jade Anthony Barnett, 38, was attacked near his home in Clapton on Wednesday afternoon.

A man who watched the incident unfold claimed three men drove into Mr Barnett’s scooter twice, knocking him to the ground, then stabbed him with a large Rambo-style knife.

Mr Barnett, who lost his left leg in a motorcycle accident in 2007 and was known as Mighty to his friends, died from his wounds only yards from the community boxing gym where he used to train.

Scotland Yard has arrested two men, aged 21 and 28, on suspicion of murder and for failing to stop for police.

Darren Thomas, a 47-year-old witness, told the Evening Standard newspaper: “I heard a bang and saw the car had hit the wheelchair. They rammed it again and he fell out.

“There were three in the car, two jumped out for the stabbing. They were guys, their faces weren’t covered. They were in a silver Honda-like car. After it happened he was screaming – it was horrible to hear. People were running around, shouting: ‘He’s been stabbed, he’s been stabbed.’

“It happened outside the community boxing club where he hangs out. I’ve known him years, a nice guy. Whatever it was over, who attacks someone in a wheelchair? It’s just terrible.”

Another witness, who wished to remain anonymous, told The Telegraph that Mr Barnett had attempted to flee but was stuck in his scooter.

His 45-year-old sister Simone Barnett, speaking from her home 10 minutes from where the attack took place on Rushmore Road, said: “He will be missed, he will be so missed.”

Their mother Joyce Barnett, who is in her 60s, told the Standard: “He was loved by everyone around here. He was a joy, he loved life. He wouldn’t hurt a fly and would never get involved in a fight. How anyone could attack him in a wheelchair I don’t know. We want answers.”

Justin Thames, a friend of Mr Barnett for 27 years, described rushing over to him after seeing the harrowing aftermath of the attack.

Mr Thames, a 41-year-old concierge who lives yards from the scene of the attack, said: “I only saw him being resuscitated by the police officers that were already on the scene. I think a few moments afterwards, the paramedics came… We were close by to him … letting him know we were there.”

He added: “He was such a good loving person… he never ever had problems. I just want to remember him as a really amazing, kind friend. He loved his music. He was a life-bringer.”

Forensics officers were seen combing the scene, which remained cordoned off by police on Wednesday afternoon.

Bouquets of flowers were left nearby. A tribute from Mr Barnett’s 23-year-old cousin Lauren and other family members read: “I have no words. We are all so shocked. We cannot believe you are gone. Fly high, Jade. We will never forget you”

Det Chief Supt James Conway, responsible for policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: “Our investigation is still in the early stages, and my detectives are working hard to establish the circumstances of what has happened this afternoon.

“If anyone has any information about this tragic incident, I urge them to come forward and speak to us, or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously with any information.

“A number of streets have been cordoned off as our investigation continues at pace and I am grateful for the patience of the local residents of Clapton. Our thoughts are with the family of the victim at this difficult time. The public can expect to see continued and significant police activity in the local area as we continue with our rigorous investigation.”