A murder investigation has been launched after a man was shot in a quiet suburban area.

Officers and paramedics were called to Erith, in the borough of Bexley, shortly before 9pm yesterday.

Shots were heard in Pembroke Road and the unidentified victim was found suffering from a gunshot wound in a nearby side street.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services, he died at the scene.

Witnesses described seeing a group of men chase the victim down the road.

Audrey Alison told the Standard: “There were four of them in balaclavas. They had chased his car, smashed into him then shot him.

“There were two shots - one after the other, quickly. It looked like a targeted hit.”

Another witness said: “I heard two loud bangs, I looked out and there was a group in balaclavas. They took off and the poor bloke was left there dying.”

Drone pictures show a forensic tent set up in Hillside, a dirt track off Pembroke Road, and a white car crashed into bins across the street.

As the police continue to conduct inquiries to confirm the victim’s identity and inform his next of kin, they are not yet releasing the man’s name or age.

No arrests have yet been made and the Met is continuing to probe the circumstances of the death.

Road closures remain in place at the location.

Labour MP for Erith and Thamesmead Abena Oppong-Asare tweeted: Very sad to hear about the death of a man in Pembroke Road, Erith.

"I cannot imagine the grief that his family and friends will be feeling."

Anyone with information that could assist police is asked to call 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD7135/9Feb.

Information can also be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.