Who killed Daniel Smith?
Police issue new appeal for witnesses to murder of electrician
Published: 20th May, 2011
by JOSH LOEB
POLICE investigating the murder of a young electrician shot in Paddington have released new photographs of key witnesses they want to speak to as well as an image of the man they believe was the intended target of the killer.
Daniel Smith, 22, from Queen’s Park, was shot in the early hours of Saturday May 22 last year as he left a KFC takeaway in Harrow Road at the junction with Sutherland Avenue.
Police have described the murder as “a clear case of mistaken identity” and want to speak to a young black male who went into the takeaway minutes before Mr Smith.
Mr Smith was shot at around a quarter past midnight as he went back to his car parked on the other side of the road, a Red Ford Focus C Max that he had borrowed from a friend.
The photos of witnesses, taken from CCTV in the Harrow Road area around the time of the shooting, show individuals who police believe could hold key information.
They also released also a new image of Mr Smith entering the shop (above).
Detective Inspector John Crossley said: “For the last 12 months we have been reiterating that Daniel Smith was not connected to any kind of crime, but shot in a case of mistaken identity.”
He said police also had an image of a man they believe to have been the intended target of the shooting.
“He has a similar build, skin tone, hair and is wearing clothes similar to Daniel’s,” said DI Crossley, who is leading the investigation.
He added that there were other photographs of potential witnesses who are not suspects.
He said: “Harrow Road is very busy, where the No 18 bus runs, and we would very much urge them to come forward. Trident has great expertise in protecting witnesses and there are a huge variety of measures that can be put in place to protect you. Please contact me on the incident room number 020 8733 4212 or mobile number 07824 548341. I will meet you at any time, in a place you want to discuss this.
“If you are not coming forward due to loyalty, this really is misplaced. Daniel was shot from behind, in a cowardly act.
“This could have been your son, brother, husband or friend. I urge you to look into your conscience.”
• Mr Smith’s family will hold an event outside the KFC at 6pm on Sunday to mark the anniversary of his death.