A murder enquiry has been opened after a man was stabbed in South Norwood yesterday.

Police were called to the Whitehorse Lane area at around 8.20pm after reports of a man suffering from serious injuries.

The victim, who has not been named, was pronounced dead at the scene.

"We are yet to speak with some next-of-kin and await formal identification," said a police statement.

"A post-mortem examination will be scheduled in due course."

It is understood the victim staggered into Subitha Food and Wine on Whitehorse Lane at about 8.20pm and asked for help before collapsing.

He was stabbed near Selhurst Park, where Crystal Palace had earlier drawn 2-2 with Aston Villa in an FA Cup fifth-round tie.

A police source said: "From what we know the guy was stabbed in the area around Whitehorse Lane and ran away into one of the nearby shops for help.

"Unfortunately he then died from his wounds inside the shop where the shopkeeper was trying to help him."

A police spokesman said: "We were called at about 8.20pm with reports of an adult male suffering serious injuries.

"He was pronounced dead at the scene at 9pm. He had been fatally stabbed.

"We are trying to identify the victim so we can inform his next of kin."

The police have cordonned off the area between Clifton Road and Park Road, which is also completely closed to the public.

Suren Bala, who works at the Total garage on Whitehorse Lane, inside the cordon, said: “I came in this morning and the road was shut. I spoke to a policeman who said someone had been stabbed.

“It is not safe around here, we have had two robberies two months ago and someone was stabbed in the forecourt here.”

A Sainsbury's worker said: “I just managed to get under the cordon. It is really bad for business though, no one can get to the store.”

Another local resident, who did not want to be named, said: “I find it is quite safe around here. I was shocked when I came outside this morning and saw the police cordon in place.”

Another resident, who gave her name as Natalie, said: “I am not really surprised this has happened. This is Croydon isn’t it?

“I heard someone had been stabbed and died.”

A police incident room will open under DCI Cliff Lyons from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command based in Lewisham.

Meanwhile, witnesses or anyone with information should contact police on 020 8721 4961, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Do you know more? Call 0208 330 9559