## Derby Community in Shock Following Fatal Stabbing at Lloyds Bank
A tragic incident has rocked the city of Derby after a well-known local businessman was fatally stabbed at a Lloyds Bank branch in the heart of the city centre. The victim, who has been identified by those close to him as Gurvinder Singh Johal, affectionately known as Danny among friends and family, lost his life in the shocking attack on Tuesday afternoon.
Emergency services, including police and an air ambulance, responded to reports of a stabbing at the Lloyds Bank on St Peter’s Street around 2.35pm on 6th May. Despite their prompt arrival, Mr Johal was sadly pronounced dead at the scene, leaving the local community stunned and in mourning.
Mr Johal was a prominent figure in Derby, owning and managing the Hen and Chickens Bar and Grill in Shelton Lock. Regarded as a dedicated “family man” by those who knew him, his untimely death has prompted tributes from friends, colleagues, and local leaders. Many have spoken of his kindness, humility, and steadfast commitment to both his family and his business.
Police swiftly launched a murder investigation following the incident. A man in his 40s was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder, and authorities later detained a second individual, a man in his 30s, believed to have been assisting an offender. Both suspects remained in custody as the inquiry continued on Wednesday.
St Peter’s Street was cordoned off into the following morning, with a heavy police presence persisting as detectives combed the area for evidence. Surrounding businesses, many of which closed due to the incident, expressed their condolences and disbelief that such violence could happen in their usually bustling neighbourhood.
Ajit Atwal, a close friend of Mr Johal and leader of the Liberal Democrat group on Derby City Council, spoke movingly about the victim’s character. “It’s a sad day for Derby,” Councillor Atwal stated. “Danny was the most hard-working and devoted family man. It makes no sense what has happened. Something must have gone terribly wrong for him to be killed in this way.” Mr Atwal described the restaurant owner as “humble, quiet and a kind guy,” known for going above and beyond for others and never hesitating to lend a hand to friends, family, and customers alike.
Shockwaves from the tragedy have left Mr Johal’s family struggling to come to terms with the loss. “His family are devastated and cannot understand what has happened. He was just getting on with his life—it’s just senseless,” Atwal added, echoing the sentiments of many who knew the victim.
The investigation is being led by Detective Inspector Tony Owen from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit. In a statement, DI Owen acknowledged the deep concern the incident had caused within the local community. “We appreciate that this incident will have caused significant concern,” he said. While the inquiry remains at an early stage, police currently believe this was an isolated event, and reassured the public that no one else was injured during the ordeal.
Residents and shop owners have been encouraged to come forward with any information that may assist the investigation. “Officers will be in the area for some time, and we’d encourage anyone with concerns to please speak to us. We’d also urge anyone who witnessed anything or has relevant information to contact the police as a matter of urgency,” DI Owen urged.
In the wake of this devastating attack, Derby’s sense of community has been tested, but local leaders and citizens alike have united in their grief and their determination to find answers. As police continue their investigations, the family of Gurvinder Singh Johal and the wider Derby community can only hope that justice will soon be served for a much-loved father, friend, and respected businessman who was taken far too soon.