A burned-out car has been discovered with traces of blood near the scene of a fatal stabbing.

A 19-year-old man was stabbed to death outside Owen Waters House in Fullwell Avenue, Clayhall, last night.

Detective investigated his death discovered a burned-out car at some garages in Hurstleigh Gardens, a short distance from the scene of the stabbing.

Scotland Yard said traces of blood were found in the area around the vehicle; forensic examination is underway to establish if the two incidents are linked.

Detective chief inspector Chris Soole, leading the murder investigation, said: “This was a particularly vicious attack. I am appealing for anyone who has information relating to this murder to come forward without delay. Help us find the person responsible and remove them, and the risk they pose, from your community.

“While we currently retain an open mind concerning motive, the possibility that the murder is gang-related is a very strong line of enquiry.”

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

The distance between Owen Waters House and Hurstleigh Gardens. Photo: Google Maps

Police were called at 10.20pm on Tuesday, November 19 to reports of a fight outside Owen Waters House. Officers attended and found a 19-year-old man suffering from several stab wounds.

Officers administered first aid until paramedics arrived, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene at 10.53pm.

His family have been informed and formal identification will happen in due course.

The Met were called to reports of a fire at the Hurstleigh Gardens garages at 10.22pm.

A post-mortem examination will be scheduled soon.

Police remain at the scene with a cordon in place.

No arrests have been made.

Anyone with information, pictures or video footage that could assist police is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 9907/19 Nov, Tweet @MetCC or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

+ If there are any young people who either have information about violence or knife crime, they can visit fearless.org where they can pass on information anonymously. Fearless is part of the Crimestoppers charity, and is also independent of the police.

If you need help or information to support someone you suspect is involved in knife crime, or you want assistance yourself, then you can visit www.knifefree.co.uk or LondonNeedsYouAlive.