Jade Defoe, 26, suffered serious head injuries in a brutal assault on Monday afternoon in Leytonstone, east London.

He was taken to a central London hospital where he died last night.

The attack took place between 4.15pm and 5pm in Walnut Gardens, near the junction with High Road Leytonstone.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "We do not believe a weapon was used during the assault. We retain an open mind as to any motive and inquiries continue to establish the full circumstances of the incident."

A 28-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of perverting the course of justice in connection with the investigation.

He was released on bail, but was re-arrested yesterday on suspicion of the same offence and remains in custody at an east London police station.

A post-mortem examination will be held at East Ham mortuary today.

Jade Defoe, also known as Gavin and Esco Bars, was popular as a grime MC on the urban music scene.

Over 600 friends and fans joined a tribute page created on Facebook.

Mimi Murrell wrote: "My heart goes out 2 Stace, who i know is a tuff lady and she will do ur kids n u proud.. i miss u already."

Sabrina Bertrand, from Jamaica, said: "I can't believe my godfather is gone, love u lots."

Darren Germaine added: "Never forget the good ol' Redbridge College days, days prior to that and days after! You were always a joker, popular with the ladies but most importantly a good friend."

Half-brother Jermain Defoe did not travel with his Tottenham team-mates yesterday for their match with Manchester United tonight because of Jade's death.

A club spokesman said: "It is a private matter and we await details."