A man stabbed to death on Boxing Day in east London has been named as Michael John Murphy.

Police have launched an investigation into the murder in Hackney, and arrested four people, who were later released with no further action being taken.

They were called to Cranwood Street at 3.10am on 26 December, where the 49-year-old died of his injuries. His next of kin has been informed and a formal identification is taking place.

The Metropolitan Police is now appealing for witnesses to come forward, after initial inquiries “confirmed there was an argument in the street” before Mr Murphy was stabbed.

Up to ten people may have been involved, and the force says residents may have overheard what happened.

Detective Chief Inspector Kelly Allen from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command said: “We are continuing to piece together the events that led to Michael sustaining his injuries and would appeal to anyone who saw or heard anything in the Cranwood Street area on Boxing Day morning to come forward.”

Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, who is responsible for policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: “Our thoughts are with Michael’s family at this unimaginably difficult time. That this tragedy occurred over the Christmas period will be shocking to many and I reiterate DCI Allen’s appeal for witnesses who were in the area to come forward.

“Specialist detectives, supported by local officers from Hackney, have been at the scene since this incident, carrying out vital evidence-gathering work.

“Their presence has caused disruption to residents in the area and I would like to thank everyone for their patience and support while this work is carried out.”