Murder Charge for Rufford Tower Man

Local Councillor's sympathy for tragic death

John Gallagher, Councillor for South Acton, expressed his sympathy today for all those involved with the terrible, tragic death of Craig Marshall.

"This incident is tragic for everyone involved. I would beg young people not to go out with knives."

He spoke forcefully about young people who carry knives: "If they are caught, this will result in a very heavy prison sentence. If they are not caught, then this tragic incident is the sort of thing which can be the result."

This week, Craig Marshall's friends and family are shocked - as are many others on the South Acton Estate where the teenager lived.

His brother Aaron, 18, has created a shrine to his brother near the South Acton Estate. Some of Craig's friends will be taking a matchday collection at Brentford FC's match on Saturday to raise funds for his funeral.

Teenagers who knew Craig have been expressing their shock.

His mother said: "I want everyone to know it's unacceptable to be going around with knives, it has to stop."

Kandeepan Balasubramaniam, 21, of Rufford Tower, was arrested on Thursday night and charged with murder.

October 3, 2008