Good Samaritan stabbed to death helping neighbour
A HERO dad was stabbed to death after interrupting his daughter’s birthday party to help a neighbour who was being attacked by youths.
Five children – two girls and three boys aged 13 to 16 – were arrested on suspicion of murder.
Locals said James Gibbons, in his 30s, was knifed after going to the aid of a man who clashed with teenagers over the noise they were making.
Several drunken youths were earlier seen roaming the area, according to witnesses.
Heartbroken friends described the devoted dad as “one in a million” and said his selfless act was typical of him.
Police said the victim’s family had been “broken apart”.
The killing happened on Sunday evening on an estate in Laindon, Essex, dubbed “Alcatraz” locally due to its fortress-like appearance.
Shocked
One neighbour said: “A man came out and told youths to be quiet and someone came out to back him up and he was the one who got killed.
“I heard he was having a barbecue for his daughter’s birthday.”
Mr Gibbons, known as Gibbo, was a plumber. His Facebook page is packed with photos of his daughters and partner. Shocked friends paid tribute on social media. One posted: “Gibbo, you really were one in a million. I can’t believe you are gone.”
Another wrote on a note at the crime scene: “So wounded I won’t get to share another laugh with you. You were one of the kindest and most lovely persons I’ve ever met.”
DCS Steve Jennings, of Essex Police, said: “We believe the victim was coming to the aid of another man and was attacked by one or more of the youths which appears to have cost him his life.
“If anyone knows anything about this murder and has not yet come forward, please do. A family has been broken apart and we need to get to the bottom of what happened.”
He said four teenagers were arrested on Sunday and a fifth on Monday. Three were bailed while two remained in custody yesterday.
One woman said the area was “not safe for children anymore”. She added: “A stabbing or crime is just normal down here. It used to be a lovely area.”