Today marks the third anniversary of the killing of innocent Daniel Smith

Brent & Kilburn Times: Daniel Smith was killed in a case of mistaken identityDaniel Smith was killed in a case of mistaken identity (Image: Archant)

Detectives have released a CCTV image of a man captured seconds before he was shot dead in a tragic case of mistaken identity.

Today marks the third anniversary since Daniel Smith, from Queen’s Park, was gunned down in cold blood after leaving KFC in Harrow Road, Paddington.

The 22-year-old electrician, a former pupil at Newman Catholic College in Harlesden, was approaching his car when he was targeted by his killers.

Detectives investigating his murder believe he was not the intended target was a young black man of similar age, build and dress who was in the shop minutes before him.

Mr Smith, who lived with his mother and sister, was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Three years on and investigating officers hope that those in the know are willing to come forward and help get justice for his family.

Lifestyles and allegiances can change over the years and people may now want to help.

They have also taken to video-sharing website YouTube in their quest to persuade reluctant witnesses and those with information to come forward.

There are a number of potential witnesses captured near the murder scene but have yet to be traced.

This includes two men in a Corsa car and another man seen walking past KFC 15 seconds after Mr Smith was shot.

The gun used to kill Mr Smith has since been used in two shootings in the West Midlands – so that may hold a clue to the identity of the perpetrators.

DI Garry Moncrieff said: “It is now the third anniversary of Daniel’s murder and the pain of what happened remains strong for Daniel’s family and in particular his mother and two sisters.

“For the last three years we have been re-iterating that Daniel was not connected to any kind of crime.

“We are appealing for someone brave enough to help Daniel’s family. We cannot solve this case without the help of people in the community.

“If you are not coming forward due to loyalty, this really is misplaced. Daniel was shot from behind, in a cowardly act. This could have been your son, brother, husband or friend. I urge you to look into your conscience and do the right thing.”

“Gun crime can create a lot of fear but if you know those responsible, by not coming forward you are allowing these cowards to continue to ruin people’s lives and increase this fear.”

Anyone with information should call the incident room on 0208 358 0248 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

To see images of the people police would like to speak to click on the photo gallery to the right.