Police have been given stop-and-search powers following the fatal shooting of a 20-year-old man in Walthamstow.

Met Police officers have upped their presence in the area following the shooting on Wednesday evening, in Essex Close, just off Forest Road.

A section 60 has now been authorised, meaning police will be able to carry out stop-and-search operations in the vicinity of where the incident took place.

Police were called to the shooting at around 9.30pm on Wednesday and found the victim suffering from a gunshot wound.

He was taken to hospital, but was pronounced dead en route at 10.45pm.

Detectives believe the victim had been sat in a stationary vehicle when he was approached by several individuals, who opened fire.

The man’s next of kin have been informed, although formal identification and a post mortem had yet to take place.

Scotland Yard has launched a murder investigation. No arrests have been made and enquiries continue.

Councillor Grace Williams, Waltham Forest Council cabinet member for community safety, said: “This tragic incident has left a family bereft.

“Gun crime will not be tolerated in this community and we will work with the police to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

“I would urge anyone who knows anything or who saw anything to contact the police. If you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers.”

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call the Met incident room on: 0208 345 3865 or Crimestoppers anonymously on: 0800 555 111.