Ian Gualavisi, who was stabbed in South London.
Ian Gualavisi, 23, died from devastating knife wounds in Elephant and Castle, South London (Picture: Metropolitan Police)

A restaurant manager who was killed after being stabbed in the back in South London has been named.

Ian Gualavisi was attacked on Tuesday evening in Elephant Castle and died of his wounds.

Paramedics battled to save the 23-year–old in the restaurant but he could not be revived.

A murder investigation is under way and police are hunting two men who are believed to have fled on a moped towards the railway station.

The Met has described the incident as another example of the ‘trauma’ knife crime is inflicting on the capital.

Formal identification has not taken place but the victim’s family are being supported by specially trained officers.

It is unclear from information released by the Met if Mr Gualavisi was killed in the restaurant he ran.

London skyline from Elephant & Castle
A murder investigation has been launched following the brazen South London attack (Picture: REX/Shutterstock)

The brutal attack happened at around 7.45pm at a premises on Maldonado Walk, off Hampton Street, close to the tube station.

Detective chief inspector Chris Wood said: ‘A dedicated team of officers is working round the clock to trace those responsible for taking Ian’s life and my thoughts are with his family as they come to terms with their tragic loss. 

‘While we remain in the early stages of the investigation, we believe Ian was attacked by two men who left the scene on a moped towards Elephant and Castle Railway Station.

‘We are in the process of collecting CCTV from the area and speaking to people who were nearby at the time of the attack. I would urge anyone who hasn’t spoken to us yet to contact police as soon as possible.’

Chief superintendent Colin Wingrove, responsible for local policing in Lambeth and Southwark, said: ‘I am shocked and saddened by the senseless loss of another life to knife crime. 

‘I am deeply saddened that another family experiences the painful loss of a son, and the trauma knife crime brings is once again experienced in our local community. Our thoughts are with Ian’s family who are being supported by specialist officers.

‘Every loss of life is a tragedy and this needless violence must end. I urge anyone with information to come forward.

‘You will continue to see a more visible police presence on the streets to offer reassurance and if you have any concerns please speak to officers or contact your local policing team.’

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