‘Do not approach’ warning for man after murder of London bus driver

Derek Thomas was stabbed to death on his way home from work.

Members of the public have been warned not to approach a man wanted in connection with the murder of a bus driver in London this week.

Derek Neil Thomas, 53, was stabbed to death on Northwold Road, Hackney, on his way home from work around 11pm on Tuesday.

Police have named Kamar Williams, a 33-year-old from the Isle of Dogs, as a person they want to speak to.

The public has been urged to call 999 immediately if they see him.

A woman, 30, was arrested yesterday on suspicion of assisting an offender.

Mr Thomas, from Stoke Newington, had reportedly finished his shift driving the 106 bus when he suffered a fatal stab wound to the chest.

Colleagues at the Northumberland Park garage in Tottenham described him as a ‘true gentleman’.

A message from Tom Joyner, Managing Director of Go-Ahead London seen by MyLondon stated: ‘I am very sad to advise you that yesterday evening, one of our colleagues – driver Derek Thomas, was fatally injured in an isolated incident in Stoke Newington in London.

‘I can confirm this incident did not occur while the driver was working. I want to reassure all of you that your safety is of the highest priority – whether it is while at our garages, on our buses or on your way to and from work.

‘We will be working with the Metropolitan Police to understand what happened during this awful incident. At this time, due the ongoing police investigation into the incident, I cannot disclose more information about the incident itself.

‘Our thoughts go out to our colleague and their family, and we will provide them – and all of you – with whatever support is required in this difficult time.’

Speaking after the murder, Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway said: ‘I understand the shock and concern this incident will cause, even more so given the recent and tragic murder of Pharrell Garcia last week.

‘However, I want to reassure people that a team of experienced detectives are already working diligently to identify whoever is responsible for this violent act.

‘Our most immediate thoughts are clearly with the family and friends of the man killed last night.’

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