An Elizabeth line transport worker has died after an attack at a railway station in east London.
Jorge Ortega, 61, was taken to hospital with serious head injuries after the assault at Ilford station but later died.
Sir Keir Starmer described the death as “absolutely tragic news”. In a post on social media site X, the Prime Minister added: “Nobody should have to face any violence at work – and certainly not something as shocking as this.
“My thoughts are with the victim’s family, friends and colleagues at this terrible time.”
In a tribute released through British Transport Police (BTP), Mr Ortega’s son said: “Our dad was the most loving person, the kindest soul you could have the pleasure of meeting.
“Everyone who has met our dad or who has ever worked with him over the years will tell you this. He had a brilliant mind, enjoyed cooking, loved drawing and was highly skilled in art.
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“He was an amazing family man and would always put other people first. He loved his grandchildren, and in turn, they adored our dad.
“He was totally devoted to our mum and loved her beyond what words can describe.
“Having been together for over 38 years, he is an example of what a great man should be like and a role model that we highly look up to.
“We can only hope to be like him. Dad is and will always be in our hearts.”
The RMT union said Mr Ortega was one of its members and worked as a customer experience assistant for MTREL, which runs the Elizabeth line, built by Crossrail.
General secretary Mick Lynch said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our member, who died following an attack while at work.
“The whole union sends its condolences to their family, friends and colleagues at this awful time and everyone’s thoughts at RMT are with them.”
Ayodele Jamgbadi, of Kingston Road, Ilford, appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Friday charged with grievous bodily harm, affray and possession of a prohibited offensive weapon in a private place and was remanded to appear at Inner London Crown Court on Jan 7.
BTP said detectives would apply to amend the indictment to reflect the death of the victim.