Mr O’Halloran was a much loved member of the community
The family of a grandfather who was fatally stabbed while riding a mobility scooter in west London have described his death as “horrific”.
Thomas O’Halloran, 87, died at the scene in Cayton Road, Greenford, after being attacked on Tuesday afternoon.
Lee Byer, 44, of Southall, west London, has since appeared in court charged with his murder.
His nephew, also named Thomas O’Halloran, said his family felt “complete numbness” at his loss.
Speaking to Irish broadcaster RTE from his home in Ennistymon, County Clare, Ireland, Mr O’Halloran said his family were in shock at the grandfather’s death.
“Just complete numbness over the loss of our uncle,” he said.
“It was horrible, absolutely horrible that something like this could happen to such a gentle, kind person.”
Thomas O’Halloran described his uncle as gentle and kind
Mr O’Halloran described his late uncle, also originally from County Clare, as “always caring, always giving” and possessed of great musical talent.
He added: “He was just an all-round good person who always did his best to give back to everyone around him, with his family.
“He’s the kind of guy who would give the shirt off his back.”
Mr Byer made his first court appearance at Willesden Magistrates’ Court earlier.
Prosecutor Louise Ahmad outlined the case, describing the alleged murder as a brutal attack.
Mr O’Halloran, who was known “all over the local community” collapsed from his mobility scooter outside Runnymede Gardens after being stabbed in the chest.
He was found by members of the public who called for help, she added.
Mr Byer was remanded in custody and is expected to appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday.
Mr O’Halloran was attacked just after 4pm BST on Tuesday
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