'Public should tackle yobs', says police chief

Evren Anil, 23, was stabbed in the face and punched after he challenged a teenager who threw a half-eaten chocolate bar into the open window of his sister's car.

He fell into a coma after hitting his head on the pavement during the attack in South London and died from head injuries nine days later.

His death came three days after Garry Newlove, 47, was fatally injured in Warrington, Cheshire, after approaching vandals outside his home.

Detective Chief Inspector Cliff Lyons, who is investigating the attack on Mr Anil, said he was right to challenge the men.

"We have got a 23-year-old university graduate starting his life, with a new job and a close-knit family,' he added.

"He challenges their behaviour and this is what happens. People say why did he get out of the car?

"But I think people are entitled to challenge anti-social behaviour by others. They shouldn't go down with their heads bowed."

The incident, in Norwood, occurred as Mr Anil waited at traffic lights. The two youths, described as black and in their late teens, ran off afterwards.

Mr Anil's family paid tribute to the keen amateur actor and footballer, who tutored children at weekends.

His sister Elif, 26, said: "Words can't describe the boy. He was an angel. He was my younger brother and my best friend.

"I was privileged to have him as a brother. I miss him so much."

Five people have been arrested then released on bail.