A 26-year-old builder was stabbed to death following an argument over a cigarette in Lee, according to neighbours.

Police were called by the London Ambulance Service at 9.46pm yesterday (August 10) to Eltham Road, to reports of a man suffering from stab wounds outside the Leegate Shopping Centre.

The victim - named locally as Alex Scott, a married builder, formerly of neighbouring Leybridge Court - had suffered stab wounds to the chest and was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Neighbours spoke of their shock at the killing, with some claiming the argument had started over a cigarette, with the victim throwing a punch before things escalated out of control.

Shopkeeper Imran Mohammad said he had been told by a friend of the dead man that the victim had started arguing with two men after asking for a smoke beside a bus stop.

The 29-year-old said: "He asked someone for a cigarette. They refused to give it to him and then he punched him."

According to neighbours, the man was then chased through the shopping centre before he was killed.

Mr Mohammad said: "I was really shocked.

"We've been here for five years now in this area. It's ok now, it's daytime. But at night time you have to worry."

Two people came to lay flowers at the scene today but were too distressed to talk.

But scores of tributes have been made to Mr Scott on social media. Relative Roni Scott wrote: "This is unreal. I wish RIP meant return is possible. We all love you very much and are now missing you like crazy. 

"The thought of you being gone still hasn't sunk in. You're never going to be forgotten about.  Love you forever and always. Rest in perfect paradise."

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Tara Walker wrote: "Oh Alex I can't believe this. U will be missed. U had a heart of gold and a lot to give. I hope those bastards who did this rot in hell. 

"But for you my loyal and protective friend, rest in peace. Will not forget you."

And younger sister Charliee Scott said: "RIP to my big brother Alex Scott. I love you so much, and I will miss you forever, my heart is breaking, you will forever been in our hearts, we all love you and tonight was the worst night of our lives."

Eltham Road remains closed beside the centre while police and forensics carry out their investigations. There have been no arrests so far.

Inspector Shaun Carre-Brown from the Met's Homicide and Major Crime Command said "Early indications suggest that the victim was involved in an argument with two males before being stabbed.

"I would urge anyone who witnessed the attack to call police on 101 immediately."

If you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.Eltham Road remains closed beside the centre while police and forensics carry out their investigations. There have been no arrests so far.

Inspector Shaun Carre-Brown from the Met's Homicide and Major Crime Command said "Early indications suggest that the victim was involved in an argument with two males before being stabbed.

"I would urge anyone who witnessed the attack to call police on 101 immediately."

If you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

- Did you see what happened? Call the newsroom on 01689 885714 or email mchandler@london.newsquest.co.uk