Murdered roofer Luke Fitzpatrick died in the arms of a distraught family friend.

A friend of the tragic Arsenal fan, who asked not to be named, told the Times Series that the 25-year-old bled to death as the man cradled him.

He said: “At least Luke did not die alone. The man who was holding him in his arms is distraught. He is in a terrible state.”

Mr Fitzpatrick died from stab wounds in Alders Grove, Dollis Hill, on Saturday night.

He was attacked soon after watching the Champions League final in the Ox and Gate pub in Coles Green Road when a gang or armed men stormed the venue.

Mr Fitzpatrick’s father, Bernard, 56, was also knifed while trying to protect his son.

He is in a serious but stable condition in hospital and it is reported that he was recently moved out of intensive care.

Another friend of the murder victim, who also asked not to be named, said: “He was such a lovely boy.

“He was such a nice person he didn’t deserve this at all.”

Four people have now been arrested in connection with the murder. Three have been released on bail, while the fourth remains in custody.