A third man has been arrested following the fatal stabbing of Fabian Kacica in Southend.

Fabian Kacica, 19, of Lornes Close, Southend, was attacked following a disturbance in Farringdon Service Road, outside The Forum, at around 9pm on Monday, May 14.

A post mortem held today recorded the cause of death as stab wound.

Police have today arrested a 20-year-old man from Southend on suspicion of murder.

An 18-year-old man from Leigh and a 17-year-old boy from Shoebury were arrested yesterday also on suspicion of murder. They remain in custody pending ongoing enquiries.

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Daniel Stoten, of the Kent and Essex Crime Directorate, said: “The investigation into the death of Fabian Kacica is progressing with three people arrested in connection with our enquiries. We are also continuing to give updates and support to Mr Kacica’s family during this difficult stage.

“There has been speculation around the motive behind this attack and I would like to stress that it remains unclear at this stage. We are continuing to keep an open mind about the motive and would continue to urge people to come forward if they have information that can assist our investigation.”

Police will continue using stop and search powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 in the High Street in the area between Queensway, Princes Road and the A1160 from 6pm today until 7am tomorrow.

An area in front of The Forum has since reopened after it was closed for forensic work.

Chief Inspector Neil Pudney, District Commander for Southend said: “We have been listening to the community’s concerns and there will be extra patrols in the town centre area throughout the rest of this week.

“I have drafted additional officers into the area from our Community Policing Team, special constabulary and Operational Support Group. PCSOs will also be on patrol.

“Tackling violent crime is a key priority in Southend and last month we saw a reduction following increased patrols and by working closely with Op Raptor and British Transport Police to tackle drug movements.

“We have also been visiting schools to educate young people about the dangers and consequences of knife crime. We would continue to urge people to be vigilant and to call us with any information."

Police are asking witnesses, anyone in the area of The Forum between 8pm and 9pm or anyone with CCTV or dash cam footage to contact Rayleigh Major Investigations Team on 101 quoting incident 1258 of May 14 or email scd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk.

Video footage and photographs can be submitted online via https://mipp.police.uk Alternatively, contact independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.